working abroad as a doctor

February 6, 2006 10:01 AM

My friend is looking for employment for his significant other in Latin America or in the United States. She is a German citizen, and is a certified doctor there (OB/GYN). She is looking for a way to practice either there (in Latin America) or in the US for an underserved community.

The reason is this - he said that practicing in the United States would require her to do another residency here and they dont have the time for her to spend several years doing that (He said exceptions are made sometimes...doctors for an Indian reservation or other programs).

They both speak Spanish, so that wouldnt be a problem with Latin America.

Outside of Latin America is fine too, but if they go abroad, they prefer there.

He's a bit computer unsavvy, so i figured i'd ask for him.

Does anyone know of programs in the US (or in latin america) that would allow her to go practice? (If in Latin America, she would need to be making 2000USD/month - which i know is a lot for a lot of countries, but a number of organizations like the UN or other sponsor highly skilled people like her, i believe).

It would be for 2 years hopefully, maybe more. Getting her a US green card wouldnt be a problem if they stay in the US (he's a citizen), and if they're going abroad...he doesnt need work (financially self-sufficient)

posted by jare2003 to travel & transportation (5 comments total)

Here is the information for West Virginia's doctor recruitment program. It includes a special visa waiver and whatnot. The requirements say that applicants are expected to have completed a 2 year residency, but it doesn't specify in the US or abroad. I'm sure they'd be happy to answer questions by phone or email.
posted by junkbox at 11:54 AM on February 6, 2006

Doctors Without Borders
posted by Sara Anne at 12:49 PM on February 6, 2006

Excellent. Does anyone have other resources?
posted by jare2003 at 1:40 PM on February 6, 2006

Residency is also about socialisation into the profession - something that may be useful for an international physician. If they are financially independent, another residency might not be a terrible option. Residents are still paid and get the opportunity to treat patients (often in county hospitals) that many suburban doctors wouldn't even think about. Here in Memphis, the poor, urban, largely african-american population is served almost exclusively by Resident OBs.
posted by jmgorman at 1:49 PM on February 6, 2006

They're older, thats why she didnt want to do another residency. I believe they're both in their fifties.
posted by jare2003 at 3:51 PM on February 6, 2006