Expanding STEM-OPT and Day 1 CPT to Address US Healthcare Shortage

In a recent report by The Times of India, it is anticipated that by 2026, over 86,000 students will engage in the medical service sector. In light of this, a think tank has proposed a thoughtful initiative to encourage medical students to explore STEM fields, offering them an additional two years of Optional Practical Training (OPT) to broaden their opportunities to remain in the United States.

Table of Content

• Understanding the Challenge
• The Current Landscape
• Exploring Solutions: STEM-OPT for Healthcare Graduates
• Day 1 CPT Schools: Expanding Healthcare Programs
• Conclusion

Understanding the Challenge

The shortage of healthcare professionals in the United States is a growing concern, impacting everything from patient care to overall health outcomes. As the nation grapples with this issue, it becomes increasingly important to find innovative solutions to ensure a strong and capable healthcare workforce. This release delves into the current state of the healthcare labor shortage, the potential benefits of expanding STEM-OPT options, and how educational institutions are adapting to attract more healthcare students. 

Read more: Day 1 CPT for Nurses

The Current Landscape

The U.S. healthcare system has long faced staffing challenges, but recent years have seen these issues reach critical levels. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) projects a shortage of up to 124,000 physicians by 2036, with significant gaps in primary care. Nurses, mental health professionals, and allied health workers are also in short supply, with each category expected to face severe shortages by the decade's end.

Several factors contribute to these shortages:

• Aging Population: As the population ages, the demand for healthcare services increases, necessitating more healthcare providers.
• Aging Workforce: Many healthcare professionals are nearing retirement, leaving a gap that is difficult to fill.
• Educational Bottlenecks: Constraints in medical residencies and nursing programs limit the number of new healthcare professionals entering the field.
• Rural Access: Rural and underserved areas face even greater challenges in attracting healthcare providers.

Exploring Solutions: STEM-OPT for Healthcare Graduates

The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows international students to work in their field of study post-graduation. While STEM graduates enjoy a 24-month extension, healthcare graduates currently do not, limiting their stay to one year. Expanding the STEM-OPT extension to include medical graduates could help retain skilled foreign professionals, particularly in areas with significant shortages.

The Niskanen Center has advocated for this expansion, highlighting the importance of retaining top talent trained at prestigious U.S. institutions. This change could benefit fewer than 400 foreign medical graduates annually, each representing a vital addition to the healthcare workforce.

Benefits of STEM-OPT Expansion

• Talent Retention: Extending work authorization for healthcare graduates allows hospitals and clinics to fill critical roles with qualified individuals.
• Incentivizing Investment: Longer work permits encourage healthcare providers to invest in training international graduates.
• Addressing Regional Shortages: Extended work permits help bridge gaps in underserved areas, such as rural and inner-city communities.

Day 1 CPT Schools: Expanding Healthcare Programs

In response to the growing demand for healthcare professionals, many universities, including those offering Day 1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT), are expanding their healthcare programs. Day 1 CPT allows students to gain practical experience from their first day of classes, providing a valuable opportunity for international students.

These schools are tailoring programs to attract healthcare students by offering new degrees and certifications in fields such as Health Informatics, Nursing, Healthcare Administration, Public Health, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Read More: Day 1 CPT MBA & MS Programs which are suitable for Nurses

Westcliff University (Irvine, CA; Miami, FL)

Day 1 CPT MBA - Healthcare Administration (STEM)

This concentration teaches nurses the important aspects of managing a healthcare facility. Business management, managed care, and health care policies are covered with a focus on quality assurance and decision-making in managed care.

Apply Now >>>

Monroe University (Rochester, NY)

Day 1 CPT MBA - Health Care Management

• Health Care Policy (required)
• Strategies for Decision Analysis in Health Care
• Emergency Management in Public Health
• Global Health
• Health Information Systems
• Continuous Quality Improvement in Health Care
• Operational Excellence in Health Care

Apply Now >>>

CIAM (Alhambra, CA, LA Metropolitan)

Day 1 CPT MBA in Executive Management

You will learn the core capabilities required to lead people effectively in a changing social economy and to develop innovative responses to complex social and business problems. CIAM's MBA management degree equips you with practical experience and advanced management skills through real-world strategic philanthropy and social empowerment projects.

Apply Now >>>

New England College (Hennikar, NH)

Day 1 CPT MS Health Informatics [STEM]

The Executive MS in Health Informatics equips students with the skills to improve healthcare efficiency through data. Designed for professionals, this hybrid program spans database design, compliance, and machine learning applications, preparing students for the healthcare and IT sectors. International students can gain practical experience through Curricular Practical Training (CPT).

Apply Now >>>

Ottawa University (Overland Park, KS)

Day 1 CPT MS Nursing - Nurse Educator Specialization & Nurse Leadership Specialization

• Transition to the Graduate Nursing Role
• Advanced Pathophysiology
• Advanced Pharmacology
• Advanced Health Assessment
• Research to Improve Quality and Safety for Graduate Nursing Roles
• Cultural Diversity, Policy and Advocacy within Population Health

Apply Now >>>

Evidence of Growth

Over the past five years, Day 1 CPT programs in healthcare have grown by 25%, with more schools offering degrees aligned with high-demand roles. This expansion reflects universities' commitment to addressing the healthcare workforce crisis and meeting the needs of international students seeking practical training.

Conclusion

The U.S. healthcare labor shortage is a complex issue that requires immediate and innovative solutions. Expanding STEM-OPT eligibility for healthcare graduates is a promising step toward retaining skilled international talent. Additionally, the growth of Day 1 CPT programs demonstrates universities' dedication to preparing students to meet the nation's healthcare needs. By supporting policy changes and fostering program growth, we can work towards a future where the U.S. healthcare system is equipped to meet its growing demands.