LocumLife - November 2008 - (Page 22)

International colleagues explore the U.S. One thing he has observed, however, is that medicine is practiced more defensively in the U.S. than in Pakistan, and as a result, physicians may order tests that are perhaps not necessary. At the same time, he admits he is more comfortable practicing in the States than in Lahore. “In the facilities here, virtually all medical services, radiological tests, and lab support are available. I do not have to rely solely on my “Here, you must clinical skills when making a prove yourself, medical decision.” hospital in the Southwest, a Veterans Administration (VA) hospital in the Northwest, and a 635-bed VA medical center in the northern Midwest, affiliated with a university medical school. At the latter facility for about 1½ years, he enjoys providing services in the VA system. He adds, “The good thing about these types of contracts is that you only need one license to practice at any VA or IHS facility.” Under the VA system, Dr. Narvaez covers only the day shift and does not take call. “I see mostly veterans, the majority of them men. I treat the more common emergency conditions, such as heart attack and stroke, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder, alcoholism, and drug abuse problems. In addition, I am now seeing a small percentage of the young veterans coming from Iraq and Afghanistan, some of whom are women.” Given his years of experience, it typically takes Dr. Narvaez little time or effort to adjust to a new place. “The things that you do in emergency medicine are always the same,” he points out. “The medicine itself does not change, but the administrative tasks that go with it may differ from place to place.” Dr. Narvaez realized this fact firsthand when he entered the VA system 2 years ago. “At the time, I was not as computer literate as other physicians and the computer system was a challenge. But I knew my medicine, and now, I am one of the fastest docs here.” He adds, “The VA has the best medical electronic record system in the world.” What advice can he give to other foreign physicians considering locum tenens practice in the United States? “Whether in temporary or permanent positions, do not expect to be treated or regarded as highly as you were in your native country. Here, you must prove yourself, know your clinical abilities, and provide the current standard of care. Improve your pronunciation, or your English in general, because you do not want to be misunderstood or perceived as not knowing what you are doing.” Dr. Narvaez continues, “Be very careful and think of the legal—not just the medical—consequences of your actions, since American society is likely much more litigious than your native country. Be nice, not arrogant. Speak slowly and explain things to the patient. Become familiar with the medications and equipment that we use in the U.S. Learn as much as you can about the culture. Finally, practice medicine the best and most current way that you can.” A BRIGHT FUTURE “Twenty years ago, the majority of clients wanted locum tenens physicians who were U.S. educated www.LocumLife.com know your clinical abilities, and provide the current standard of care.” NOT READY TO RETIRE Roger Na r vaez , M D, who attended medical school in the Philippines, began providing emergency medicine services as —Roger W. Narvaez, MD a locum tenens physician in the 1970s. He selected this career alternative to supplement his income while he completed a radiology residency in the Northeast. A U.S. citizen since 1986, Dr. Narvaez thought he would retire after three decades in the specialty, but found himself with too much time on his hands. About 3 years ago, this board-certified physician signed on with Medical Doctor Associates (MDA) and has been accepting locum tenens contracts exclusively from the Norcross, Georgia-based staffing firm ever since. “There is a great need in emergency medicine with so many openings that are unfilled, and facilities that require help,” he remarks. So far, Dr. Narvaez has provided coverage at an Indian Health Service (IHS) SAGE ADVICE Use locum tenens as a way of exploring other areas and different kinds of practices before making a ﬁnal career decision. Become well versed in the various cultural groups in the U.S. and learn to communicate with them on a local level. Be familiar with the medications and equipment that are used in the U.S. When wrapping up an opportunity, make sure everything is complete, especially the patients’ medical records, prior to leaving the country. If you will be returning to America for another contract, get your required documentation in order before heading home. 22 LocumLife NOVEMBER 2008 http://www.LocumLife.com

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LocumLife - November 2008 Editorial Contents From Nalto Stat! Residency Corner Sailing the High Seas Last-Minute Luxury International Colleagues Explore the U.S. Advertiser Index Opportunities Direct City Beat Contest Rules Anyone's Guess La Vita Locum

LocumLife - November 2008

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