Bipartisan REDI Act reintroduced to tackle U.S. doctor shortage

U.S. Representatives Brian Babin and Chrissy Houlahan have reintroduced the Resident Education Deferred Interest Act (REDI Act) to address the doctor shortage in the United States. The bipartisan bill aims to make medical education more affordable and improve healthcare outcomes nationwide.

Representative Babin emphasized the urgency of the issue, stating, "The growing doctor shortage is a crisis we can’t afford to ignore. By passing the Resident Education Deferred Interest (REDI) Act, we can remove a major financial barrier for future physicians and dentists, making their education more accessible and strengthening our health care workforce." He noted that the legislation would save residents significant amounts in accrued interest, encourage specialization, and facilitate service in rural areas.

Representative Houlahan highlighted the need for equitable loan policies for medical students: "College and university students in undergraduate and graduate programs are not required to start paying their loans until they complete them. That same policy should extend to dental and medical students through their internship and residency requirements.” She expressed pride in supporting this bipartisan effort to alleviate financial burdens on those pursuing medical or dental degrees.

The REDI Act has garnered support from numerous organizations across various medical fields, including the American Medical Association, American Dental Association, and many specialty societies.