06/07/2025
SAPAโs Statement on the Impact of the Presidential Travel Ban on Sudanese Healthcare Professionals
The Sudanese American Physicians Association (SAPA) is closely monitoring the impact of the recent announcement of the travel ban, which includes Sudan among the countries subject to new entry restrictions. While we acknowledge the broader context in which such policies are made, we are deeply concerned about the consequences this ban is having on Sudanese healthcare professionals.
The travel ban is affecting the following groups:
1. โ Over 80 Sudanese medical graduates who successfully matched into U.S. residency and fellowship programs are expected to begin training on July 1, 2025.
2. Sudanese physicians currently in the U.S. on J-1 visas, many of whom may now be unable to travel to visit or reunite with family abroad.
3. โ Other Sudanese healthcare professionals in clinical, educational, and research roles whose ability to enter or remain in the U.S. may be disrupted.
These individuals are part of the U.S. healthcare workforce, providing essential care in hospitals and training programs across the country, often in medically underserved areas. Delays or barriers to their participation in the healthcare system may impact patient care, strain already overburdened teams, and hinder the continuity of medical education.
To assess the situation and support the affected healthcare professionals, SAPAโs Career Development and Academic Office has taken several steps:
1. Communicated internally and promptly with members and affected individuals to understand the scope of the issue and share updates.
2. Provided tailored, one-on-one support to affected physicians through a responsive support system that allows them to reach out whenever they need guidance, assistance, or advocacy.
3. Engaged in advocacy efforts with legal and immigration partners to explore available solutions, working diligently with the Committee of Interns and Residents (CIR) and other partners to support affected physicians and ensure continued advocacy on their behalf.
4. Issued a travel advisory to all Sudanese physicians on J-1 visas to help them navigate the implications of the ban and avoid unnecessary risk;
We remain committed to supporting our colleagues through this period of uncertainty and are working collaboratively with stakeholders to seek a fair and timely resolution. SAPA will continue to share updates and provide resources as this situation evolves.
Sudanese American Physicians Association (SAPA)
For media contact: media-office@sapa-usa.org
sapa-usa.org