I'm a foreign medical graduate, applying for a research position in a clinical ward. I'm not supposed to be involved in the patients care and treatment. But, I should have some limited patient contact (e.g. providing informed consent or gathering some information and data). The international office of that university has told me that, J1 research scholar visa does not apply to me, because applicants in this program are limited to activities with no patient contact. Further, since I'm not still ECFMG certified, I can not get benefit from J1 physician program.
I was wondering to know about H1B visa. Is is appropriate for these kinds of situations?

H1-B may apply to you, discuss with international office.