Background
International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are defined as individuals who have completed their medical schooling outside the United States. IMGs are a heterogeneous group and can be further categorized as U.S. IMGs or non-U.S. IMGs, depending on their nationality status. Recently published data indicates IMGs make up 29% of the U.S. psychiatric workforce compared with 23% in other specialties, and 21% of psychiatry residents are IMGs. Unique career challenges for IMGs include obtaining and retaining visas, limited job opportunities, dealing with imposter syndrome and discrimination, and a lack of mentorship. APA formed a work group to develop a plan of action to address the unique needs of IMG members, members of international origin and members who continue to identify strongly with their country of origin.
The APA Joint Reference Committee created an IMG Work Group at its November 2021 meeting and charged it with developing a plan of action to address the unique needs of IMG members. A needs assessment, including a survey completed by approximately 800 IMGs, revealed the importance of developing a resource guide that would support IMGs throughout their career — before, during and after residency. Choosing from a wealth of resources, the work group identified key points and tips that it then included in this IMG Resource Guide. View the full report here.