MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The possible closure of Jackson Hospital in Montgomery could have consequences reaching far beyond patient care. Physicians on work visas say a shutdown could force some doctors to leave Montgomery and potentially discourage others from coming here in the future.

Impact on International Doctors

Cardiologist Dr. Ashok Runkana is from India, but has called Montgomery home for the past five years. If the hospital closes, Runkana says dozens of physicians who work under visa programs could face an uncertain future.

He estimates between 30 and 40 doctors at Jackson are in similar situations. Runkana says doctors would have just 30 to 60 days to find new employment, while transferring licenses and obtaining hospital credentials can take months.

Any lapse in employment could cause immigration problems for physicians and their families. It could also make Montgomery less attractive for international physicians and create challenges for healthcare recruitment in the future.

Original reporting: Alabama News Network — read the source article.