Bill > SCR24

This resolution requests the Joint Committee on Government and Finance to conduct a comprehensive study addressing the challenges faced by unmatched medical school graduates and the ongoing shortage of medical professionals in West Virginia. The study aims to explore potential solutions such as allowing qualified medical graduates to intern with licensed physicians in the state, investigating ways to address funding limitations for hospital residency programs (including strategies like raising federal funding caps or requiring hospitals to contribute more to resident training costs), and developing additional recommendations to help medical graduates continue their training while addressing the state's healthcare workforce needs. The committee is specifically tasked with examining the growing national trend of medical school graduates being unable to secure residency positions, which can halt their professional progress and create significant financial challenges. By the 2026 legislative session, the committee is expected to report its findings, conclusions, and recommendations, along with draft legislation that could help resolve these issues. The resolution recognizes the state's historical struggle with medical professional shortages, particularly in rural areas, and seeks to create innovative pathways for medical graduates to contribute to the healthcare system while completing their training requirements.

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Resolution_History.cfm?year=2025&sessiontype=RS&input4=24&billtype=CR&houseorig=S&btype=res