United StatesAuthorizes U.S. program to train OB-GYNs for fistula care abroad
Training and retaining clinicians to treat childbirth injuries can reduce lifelong disability and restore health and social participation for affected women.
What it does
Authorizes the John E. Fogarty International Center to provide assistance to least developed countries to train OB–GYNs and urogynecology specialists.
Directs creation of fellowship and residency programs and coordination with higher education and midwifery programs to build local clinical capacity.
Allows establishment of specialized training centers focused on OB–GYN and urogynecology expertise in high-need areas.
Requires a comprehensive, integrated 10-year strategy to address the shortage of physicians in least developed countries, including priorities, research, and capacity building.
Mandates reporting: a strategy report to Congress within 2 years and annual implementation reports evaluating program effectiveness.
Argument forBuilds local surgical and obstetric capacity where fistula and childbirth injuries are concentrated, enabling more women to get timely repair and reintegration services.
Argument againstThe bill authorizes programs but does not appropriate funds; Congress must still provide money, so promised assistance may not materialize without future appropriations.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To President
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- May 22Introduced in HouseLatest
- May 22Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.Introduced
HealthcareEducationForeign Policy