• Currently embarking on a certification and recertification survey, distributed to program directors, credentialing officers, and OPOs
• Implementation of an interactive timeline for fellows to obtain visas and credential information. The timeline has links to various agencies, including the Educational Commission of Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)
• Conducted a survey of ASTS program directors and identified problems with certification and licensure that were delaying the start of fellowship training around the country
• Task Force continue to have ongoing conversation with the ECFMG and members of the American Board of Surgery (ABS)
• Addressed H-1 & J-1 visas, their ratios and timely processing.  Most recently made inroads with the American Medical Association (AMA) and their International Medical Group (IMG) working group
• Accomplished faster processing of J-1 visas and a shorter delay for the FCVS verification process
• Ongoing work with Fellowship Committee to ensure a fair assessment of programs, participating in the monthly calls
• In conjunction with the Fellowship Committee, the FMG Task Force held a session at the 2009 Winter Meeting for incoming foreign medical graduate candidates.  This was the first attempt to educate new candidates prior to the application process

Committee Members