Practicing Medicine Abroad

Holding a medical degree unlocks the opportunity to practice medicine internationally, across the globe. It can be a transformative experience, allowing you to learn about international healthcare systems, different populations, and overall reinvigorating your medical career. Some individuals may take this leap for personal growth and simply step outside their comfort zone. Personal enrichment includes travel and adventure, experiencing new cultures, and building a network beyond the US. Global practice provides excellent exposure to a broader range of medical conditions and treatments, cultural competency exposure, and opportunities for professional growth. Many countries are facing physician shortages and would greatly benefit from the services of physicians abroad. 

Any such leap requires plenty of planning and paperwork. Each country has its own procedures for appropriate licensing to practice in that country. It is essential to research the guidelines correctly, as some may recognize US credentials and require additional examinations. Some countries offer visas specifically for medical work, and others may require a sponsorship. It is essential to plan well in advance and make informed decisions.

There are multiple ways to enter the realm of medicine abroad. One way is to assign locum tenens assignments and provide temporary healthcare placements to fill absent positions or cover staffing shortages. The duration and location can vary greatly, but it is an opportunity to operate outside your usual scope of practice. The locum tenens process is often handled by agencies that arrange housing, travel, and credentialing arrangements. Another option is to work with humanitarian organizations such as Médecins Sans Frontières or the International Medical Corps. These groups often focus on disaster relief and community-based health care, prioritizing providing support to these communities. This practice is rewarding but requires stepping outside comfort zones. An alternate approach is to become involved with global health outreach programs through public health organizations such as the CDC. The CDC offers a variety of positions in research, policy, and epidemiology for physicians. They have a branch for the Commission Corps where they will send out physicians to target global health challenges internationally. Telemedicine is a recent advancement that allows physicians to practice while living abroad. Physicians can care for patients through calls as long as they are located in the same state as they are licensed. With telemedicine, paying close attention to DEA and insurance regulations when prescribing medications is essential, since some require in-person visits. 

Practicing medicine abroad is an exciting opportunity to grow as an individual and a professional. This experience provides exposure to things outside the daily scope of practice and will be a time to remember.

Thank you for reading,

Ashira Agarwal

Sources:

International Medical Corps

Can You Do Telehealth From Another Country?

Work as a doctor abroad: Practicing medicine in another country 

We Came to the US to Practice Medicine. Now, the Pandemic Won't Let Us.