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What do locum tenens assignments in the Caribbean look like? What is included with locum tenens assignments in the Caribbean Physician compensation for locum tenens jobs in the Caribbean Reasons physicians choose to work locum tenens in the Caribbean Just a few of the benefits of working international locum tenens Things to know before leaving on your Caribbean assignment Consider the Caribbean for your next international locum tenens adventureThe concept of “work & play” is certainly the vibe with international locum tenens assignments with Global Medical Staffing (GMS) throughout the Caribbean islands, including Bermuda, Grand Cayman, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Many Caribbean destinations need locum physicians because they have very small populations from which to recruit physicians. With growing demand for physicians to serve residents and tourists alike, working locum tenens in the Caribbean offers a chance to make a meaningful contribution while embarking on an unforgettable adventure on beautiful tropical islands.
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Multi-specialty clinics in underserved locations
Hospitals and clinics in metropolitan or resort areas
Most assignments range from 1 to 2 weeks to as much as 3 to 6 months or more
The physician workweek in the Caribbean varies by specialty with options including:
Monday – Friday
Shift work
24-hour on-call shifts
All medical settings need locum physicians, including:
Clinics
Hospitals
Multi-specialty clinics
Urgent care clinics
The most common physician specialties needed in the Caribbean include (but are not limited to):
New jobs are available every day, so be sure to reach out to a recruiter at 800.760.3174 for any new openings.
In the Caribbean, Global Medical Staffing typically doesn’t staff for outpatient/primary care specialties.
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Global Medical Staffing will take care of licensing for you. That’s right, all the international logistics come headache free.
If necessary, we apply for and secure you and your family members’ visas. Some U.S. territories, like the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, only require a valid U.S. passport.
GMS or the healthcare facility provides medical malpractice coverage during your assignment.
GMS will assist you with as much credentialing and pre-fill apps as we’re legally allowed to reduce the amount of time you spend on paperwork.
Housing, airfare, and a vehicle are all provided by the facility where you’ll be working.
Though pay for locum tenens physicians in the Caribbean is typically lower than in the United States, the lifestyle perks of island living make up the difference for many physicians. The vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and strong sense of community — all in a vacation setting — can make the trade off worthwhile. Besides, how much does a good hammock cost, anyway?/p>
GMS pays locum tenens providers weekly, deposited directly into their accounts.
Read the IRS guidelines to learn more about the tax implications of working internationally, especially as a locum tenens physician. You may want to consult a tax professional or accountant specializing in international taxation. We’re also here to help answer any other questions we can.
Since locum tenens physicians are independent contractors, GMS does not provide health insurance or typical full-time employee benefits. Your U.S. health insurance is accepted in U.S. territories like Puerto Rico or the USVI. Still, you’ll want to check with your individual carrier to see if you’ll be covered while in locations like Bermuda.
Further, some territories in the Caribbean, like St. Martin and Cuba, require visitors to have medical insurance before entering the country.
You may consider an international travel insurance policy. A range of travel insurance policies exist, including medical coverage that allows you to seek emergency medical care if needed, coverage for preexisting medical conditions, and emergency medical evacuation coverage.
locum tenens faq
Life in the Caribbean is slower paced than in the United States, with a small-town, rural feel. And with fewer administrative responsibilities, you’ll have plenty of time for adventures while not a work.
The island culture is nice. It’s a slower pace of living. They’re beautiful islands. The water is stunning, there’s not really much pollution, and the weather, of course, is the same year-round.
- Dr. Alan Hogdon, emergency medicine physician
Live on beautiful tropical islands, surrounded by a rich culture and plenty of opportunities to explore new places.
The island is absolutely gorgeous. The beaches are phenomenal. It’s tropical living, and it’s absolutely gorgeous.”
- Dr. Penny Williams, pulmonary and critical care physician
Working in a new culture while experiencing a different way of practicing medicine is a great way to enhance your professional experience.
It’s the type of medicine that you don’t get to practice in the States — you have to be adaptive; you have to make use of the supplies you can find. If you don’t have the equipment to do something, you have to realize you’ve done everything you could.
- Dr. Penny Williams, pulmonary and critical care physician
Balance your career while you transition into retirement on a beautiful Caribbean Island.
Traveling is in my blood and locum tenens allows me to keep seeing new places and practice medicine as I transition into retirement.
- Dr. Clark Knutson, pediatrician
Working locum tenens in the Caribbean is more than just a job; it's a thrilling adventure filled with new experiences, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking landscapes at every turn.
When I started traveling to strange places and working as a physician, I was unbelievably happy. I feel like I learned a lot about each practice while doing international locums. I am excited about trying new foods and seeing new things, exploring, finding the hole-in-the-wall places.
- Dr. Raymattie Singh, hospitalist
Learn about and immerse yourself in a new culture
Expose your family to new, unique experiences and spend quality time together
Mix work and play by exploring the islands in your time away from work
Enjoy the slower pace of island living
Check out nearby exotic destinations
It's essential to familiarize yourself with local medical practices and standards when practicing medicine internationally to ensure effective and culturally sensitive patient care. Fortunately, your GMS rep will be with you every step of the way to help you find the information you need.
Come prepared knowing which medicines are and aren’t available locally on some Caribbean islands. For individuals requiring prescription medications, the amount you can take with you varies depending on your destination’s regulations and the type of medicine you are traveling with.
Read more: Tips for preparing to travel with prescription medication
Want to bring along a four-legged friend on your international adventure? Specialized pet transportation services are available to help you know what to expect, make logistical arrangements, and assist in coordinating permits and other customs requirements. However, most Caribbean assignments are shorter, so locum physicians working in the Caribbean typically leave their pets at home with family or friends.
Locum tenens in the Caribbean offers a chance for both personal and professional harmony. Embrace the opportunity, immerse yourself in Caribbean culture, and embark on a memorable adventure that can have a lasting impact on your career and the patients you serve.
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