The healthcare field relies on the expertise and dedication of medical technologists from around the world, especially as lab test results direct 70% of all medical decisions regarding patient care. The U.S. is facing a shortage of medical technologists, also known as medical laboratory scientists (MLS), with an estimated 25,600 MLS openings per year for the next decade and not enough professionals to fill the positions, creating an enhanced need for alternative staffing solutions.
International medical technologists can help fill the shortage gaps, however, the immigration journey for these professionals can be complex and challenging, particularly when it comes to the H-1B visa lottery system. In this blog post, we will discuss ways that hospital and medical laboratory leaders can optimize staffing with international hires, provide insights on how to successfully navigate the H-1B visa lottery, and share tips to prepare for successful recruitment of international medical technologists.
Understanding the H-1B Visa Lottery
The H-1B visa program is highly sought after. Only a limited number of visas are available each year, so a lottery system is used to determine who receives them. With high competition, the process can be overwhelming and unpredictable for medical technologists looking to start their careers in the U.S. healthcare system. On the other hand, the H-1B visa lottery can provide healthcare professionals – and the hospital and laboratory leaders at their future U.S. workplace – with a shorter immigration window. Partnering with an international healthcare staffing agency like Conexus MedStaff can help you navigate the immigration process from start to finish.
Strategies for Successfully Implementing an International Staffing Program
Stay Informed: As a hospital or medical laboratory leader, it is crucial to stay informed about U.S. immigration laws and updates on the H-1B visa program. Seek the services of immigration experts experienced in medical staffing to demystify the process, accelerate visa petition filings, and support your recruitment strategy.
Plan Early: To maximize your chances of securing qualified talent through the H-1B visa lottery, it is important to communicate needs with your international staffing partner. The lottery occurs annually in March, and your staffing agency will need time to gather all information and register potential candidates into the annual H-1B visa lottery. Conexus MedStaff has an in-house team of immigration experts to guide healthcare professionals through the process, ensuring that all documents are in order and deadlines are met – resulting in getting them on-the-ground and in your facility as quickly as possible.
Embrace Diversity: International medical technologists bring diverse talents, perspectives and experiences that can enhance the competence of your healthcare teams. By embracing diversity, healthcare organizations can create inclusive and supportive environments, in which the strengths of international medical technologists are leveraged to improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall quality of care. Conexus MedStaff understands the importance of generational and demographic differences and can assist both healthcare professionals and organizations in harnessing the power of a diversified workforce.
Communicate With and Educate Your Team: Adding international staff to your team can strengthen and elevate the expertise, diversification and value provided within your organization, as well as among the community and patients served. To create a positive experience for both your new international staff and permanent members of your team, it is important to communicate and educate staff on the benefits of implementing an international staffing program. Highlight the opportunities available for growth, mentorship, learning and varying perspectives, as well as professional development.
Conexus MedStaff serves as a bridge between international medical technologists seeking to work in the U.S. and healthcare organizations in need of specialized talents. Conexus MedStaff partners with healthcare organizations across the U.S., providing unrivaled immigration expertise to facilitate the process of visa applications, including the H-1B visa lottery. Through our deep understanding of the intricacies of the immigration process and leveraging available resources, Conexus MedStaff can unlock the door to staffing solutions for your organization.
If you are interested in learning how Conexus MedStaff can partner with your organization to provide workforce solutions, reach out today.