Balancing the act : the international migration of medical graduates

In this article I examine the phenomenon of international migration of medical graduates. The debate involving the ethical aspects of medical migration as well as the obstacles faced by doctors to practice unreservedly in their host countries are addressed. The situation of Australia in this context is also scrutinised. Finally, I propose a series of strategies aimed at minimising the unfavourable consequences of the international migration of doctors. This commentary favours a reform in the way institutions and society respond to the process of medical migration and to the needs of migrant doctors. Continued research on this health care topic is required in order to identify the major factors that play a role in this process.