Can a medical doctor be sponsored in J-1 status?

The U-M International Center is authorized to issue a Form DS-2019 to Alien Physicians (M.D.s) to enable them to come to the U.S. for the primary activity of observation, consultation, teaching, or research. They can participate in a non-clinical exchange program, either with NO PATIENT CONTACT OR CARE, or where patient contact is only INCIDENTAL to the primary activity. M.D.s with direct patient contact must be sponsored by ECFMG. Examples of acceptable activities that involve no patient contact or incidental patient contact: • Doing a diagnostic examination in the presence of a senior physician who repeats the exam or ensures at every step that it is done correctly and the proper diagnostic information is obtained. • Being present during therapies and treatment with opportunities for hands-on experience in ways that do not compromise the care of the patient. • Being present in the operating room and having limited patient contact, but not performing procedures. In order for an ...  more