Become a general practitioner in Puerto Rico

To become a general practitioner in Puerto Rico, one must first complete a Bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or pre-med. After completing the undergraduate degree, the next step is to attend medical school. In Puerto Rico, there are two medical schools: the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine and the Ponce Health Sciences University School of Medicine. Both schools offer a four-year program that leads to a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

After completing medical school, the next step is to complete a residency program in family medicine or internal medicine. The residency program typically lasts three years and provides hands-on training in a clinical setting. During the residency program, the resident will work under the supervision of experienced physicians and gain experience in diagnosing and treating patients.

Once the residency program is completed, the physician must obtain a license to practice medicine in Puerto Rico. The Puerto Rico Board of Medical Examiners is responsible for issuing licenses to physicians. To obtain a license, the physician must pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) and complete an application process that includes a background check and verification of education and training.

In addition to obtaining a license, general practitioners in Puerto Rico must also maintain their certification through continuing education. The Puerto Rico Medical Association offers a variety of continuing education courses and conferences to help physicians stay up-to-date on the latest medical advancements and techniques.