Migration Health Physician

Migration Health Physician

International Organization For Migration (IOM)

August 21, 2026September 4, 2026South Africa
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to encompass 173 member states and operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on providing emergency and humanitarian assistance to migrants and displaced individuals, enhancing preparedness and early warning systems, and initiating early recovery for disaster risk reduction and community stabilization in areas affected by both natural and unnatural disasters. IOM's mission is to ensure that migration is safe, orderly, and dignified, and it works to uphold the rights of migrants while addressing the challenges they face.

Job Overview:
The Migration Health Physician will play a crucial role in the Migration Health Assessment Centre (MHAC) located in Pretoria, South Africa. Under the overall supervision of the Sub-Regional Health Assessment Programme Coordinator and direct supervision of the Clinic Head, the successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the efficient daily operations of the MHAC. This includes conducting comprehensive migration health assessments that meet the technical requirements of resettlement countries. The physician will be involved in various health-related tasks such as medical examinations, imaging, laboratory testing, vaccinations, TB management, treatment and referrals, and pre-departure procedures. The role also requires maintaining accurate health records, overseeing treatment for TB and sexually transmitted infections, and contributing to the quality improvement of health services provided at the MHAC. The physician will be expected to engage in data collection and analysis, financial oversight, and procurement of medical supplies, ensuring compliance with IOM's operational standards and protocols.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Ensure the efficient daily operations of the Migration Health Assessment Center (MHAC) in close coordination with the Clinic Head.
  • Conduct the migration health assessment process, fulfilling technical requirements for resettlement countries, including medical examinations, imaging, laboratory testing, vaccinations, TB management, treatment and referrals, pre-departure procedures, documentation, and other technical areas as required.
  • Properly identify refugees and migrants during health assessments, ensuring completeness and accuracy of recorded health information.
  • Provide treatment for TB and sexually transmitted infections, supporting HIV and counselling activities, and overseeing TB case management.
  • Contribute to the oversight and coordination of immunization and presumptive treatment programmes, ensuring compliance with technical guidelines and protocols.
  • Maintain a quality improvement system for each service area within the MHAC, conducting regular quality control activities and using data analysis to monitor performance indicators.
  • Ensure proper data collection, processing, and analysis of migration health data, providing periodic and ad-hoc reports to the Clinic Head.
  • Ensure accurate entry of health assessment data into the Migrant Management Operational System Application (MiMOSA) and other databases.
  • Oversee financial aspects of the MHAC, contributing to budget preparation and reviewing financial reports. 1
  • Coordinate procurement of medical equipment, vaccines, medications, and supplies in collaboration with the Clinic Head and Resource Management Unit. 1
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a medical degree from a recognized institution, with a specialization in public health, infectious diseases, or a related field being highly desirable. The candidate must have a valid medical license to practice in South Africa and should demonstrate a strong understanding of migration health issues and the health needs of migrants and refugees. Additionally, the candidate should possess excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
A medical degree from an accredited institution is required for this position. Additional qualifications in public health, infectious diseases, or a related field are preferred. Continuous professional development and training in migration health or related areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant clinical experience, particularly in migration health, public health, or a similar field. Experience working with international organizations or in humanitarian settings is highly advantageous. Familiarity with health assessment protocols and procedures for migrants and refugees is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both spoken and written. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those commonly spoken by migrant populations in South Africa, is considered an asset and will enhance the candidate's suitability for the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Pretoria, South Africa, and is a full-time role. The successful candidate will receive a Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of R33,348.22, a one-time entry lump sum of $350 at the start of the assignment, medical insurance, life cover, and annual leave. Additionally, access to learning platforms and a one-time exit lump sum at the end of the assignment will be provided. The role may involve working in a challenging environment, and candidates should be prepared for the realities of living and working in South Africa, including being vigilant about personal safety.
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