SVN-2026-011 Migration Health Physician - UG

Organizational Context

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Costa Rica seeks a Migration Health Physician to manage the medical components of the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) program. This role operates under the Head of Programs and Protection Officer, with technical guidance from the Chief Migration Health Officer or Regional Health Assessment Programme Coordinator, ensuring compliance with IOM and Migration Health Division procedures.

Job Purpose

The primary purpose of this role is to implement and manage the medical aspects of the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) program in Costa Rica, funded by PRM under the GAVR initiative. The incumbent will ensure that all medical components are handled in full compliance with IOM and Migration Health Division (MHD) procedures. This involves assessing the health status of individuals, coordinating medical care, and facilitating safe travel arrangements, contributing to the overall success and humanitarian objectives of the AVR program by ensuring the well-being of migrants throughout the return process.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include reviewing medical histories, providing pre-departure counseling, and liaising with treating physicians. The role involves organizing and conducting physical examinations to assess fitness for travel and decision-making capacity, identifying post-arrival needs, and recommending or referring urgent medical conditions for stabilization. Coordination with AVRR counselors in sending and receiving countries for continuity of care is essential. The position also entails determining and coordinating medical travel arrangements, including escorts and necessary equipment, and completing airline medical forms. Supervision of health staff and external consultants, data collection, analysis, and reporting on migration health activities are crucial. Ensuring data quality, maintaining confidentiality, and implementing quality improvement systems, including country-specific SOPs, are also key duties. Additionally, the role involves liaising with external medical providers, supporting budget planning, monitoring health-related activities, and performing other assigned duties.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of experience in emergency medicine or internal medicine is required. Experience in conducting medical assessments, preparing medical reports, and coordinating patient care is necessary. Experience in migration health, humanitarian programs, or return/reintegration support, particularly with fitness-to-travel assessments, is highly desirable.

Skills

Proficiency in Spanish and English (oral and written) is required. Understanding of in-flight physiology and knowledge of medical protocols, patient rights, and ethical standards are important. Strong organizational skills, ability to liaise effectively with medical professionals and staff across countries, and adaptability to flexible working hours are also essential.

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