International Medical Graduates as Physician Scientists
Description
In this presentation, Dr. Naqvi will discuss pathways to success as IMG physician-scientists and roadblocks.
Promoting the Careers of International Medical Graduates*
Date: October 18, 2026
Time: 7:30 am to 9:00 am
Room: Coral 2
Track: Professional Development Workshop - Mid to Late-Career Level
Session Description
International Medical Graduates (IMGs) comprise nearly one-third of neurology trainees and approximately one-quarter of the physician workforce. As the population ages and more than 40% of physicians approach retirement, IMGs play a critical role in expanding access to care and advancing the academic mission. It is essential for program directors, faculty, and hiring leaders to understand the unique needs and contributions of IMGs across all stages of training and career development.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Review visa pathways available for training and employing qualified IMGs.
- Examine the challenges and opportunities IMGs encounter when pursuing academic careers.
- Identify effective recruitment and institutional strategies to support the successful integration and retention of IMGs.
Speakers
- (Chair) Jayant Acharya, MD, DM, FANA, FAES, FACNS, FAAN
- (Co-Chair) Abhimanyu Mahajan, MD, MHS, FANA
- (Speaker) Imama Naqvi, MD, MS
- (Speaker) Erica Schuyler, MD, FAAN, FANA
- (Speaker) Thabele Leslie-Mazwi, MD, FANA
- (Speaker) Justin McArthur, MBBS, MPH, FAAN, FANA
IMGs in Graduate Medical Education
Description
In this presentation, Dr. Schuyler will discuss the complex process IMGs face to train and work in the US with a goal of advising how faculty and leaders can advocate for their success.
IMGs and the Health System
Description
In this presentation, Dr. Leslie-Mazwi will discuss how international medical graduates bring clinical expertise, cultural and linguistic breadth, and a deep commitment to service, often filling critical gaps in underserved communities, rural regions, and high-need specialties. This session will examine the role of IMGs not only as individual physicians navigating complex training, credentialing, and career pathways, but also as a vital workforce that helps sustain access, equity, and innovation across health care. We will explore the barriers IMGs face, the opportunities they create, and the policy, institutional, and cultural changes needed to better recognize and support their contributions.
Importance of IMGs to the Health of the US
Description
In this presentation, Dr. McArthur will describe the critical role of IMGs within the US health care system, both at the level of training and post-training.