WASHINGTON: A number of influential U.S. lawmakers would address Indian American doctors at the Capitol Hill in March during which they are expected to raise issues related to immigration and health care.

American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin, the largest ethnic organization of physicians, representing over 100,000 physicians of Indian origin will hold the annual Legislative Day & Governing Body Meeting from March 26 to 28.

"The Legislative Day will have panel discussions on topics of importance to AAPI members and how they can be part of the process in the implementation of the health care reform in this country," said Ajeet Singhvi, AAPI office bearer.

While medical school enrolment has climbed two annually over the past five years through new schools and expansion of existing schools, the number of residency slots funded by Medicare has been capped at about 100,000 since 1997.

Increasing GME position will help to address access issues in United States, Ravi Jahagirdar, AAPI president said.

As part of comprehensive immigration reform, AAPI urged the Congress to include international medical graduates also along with international students graduating with degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) being fast-tracked for Green Cards.

This proposal enables highly-skilled workers to remain in the United States after receiving their higher education in the states.

Among the areas where AAPI had sought US lawmakers to support their agenda included increasing 15,000 more Residency Positions.

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