LATIMGS represents a U.S.-based organization expanding the healthcare workforce by supporting Latin American medical talent through clinical training, research, career development, and professional networking.
To expand access to high-quality clinical training and career pathways for international medical students and graduates — strengthening the physician workforce through structured programs that prepare future doctors to serve where they’re needed most.
A future where skilled, compassionate physicians from Latin America contribute meaningfully to health systems across the Americas.
A mission-driven story grounded in service, representation and opportunity for Latin American medical talent.
“I founded LATIMGS to rewrite what’s possible for Latin American medical students and graduates — not just for their careers, but for the future of healthcare itself.”
This is about building a U.S. physician workforce that understands our patients, speaks their language, and reflects the world we serve.
Our communities deserve better. We’re here to deliver it.
Per aspera, ad astra.
Physicians and educators guiding the organization and its work with students and graduates.
Dr. Cucalón Calderón is a pediatrician at Renown Children’s Hospital and Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. Originally from Ecuador, he earned his medical degree from Univ Catolica de Guayaquil (Ecuador) he completed his residency at the University of South Alabama.
Dr. Arguelles-Hernandez is an international physician and clinical researcher specializing in dermato-oncology trials at MD Anderson Cancer Center. She earned her medical degree from Universidad Anáhuac Querétaro (Mexico) and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Health in Health Policy and Administration at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
Dr. Carla Torres-Zegarra is a Pediatric Dermatologist at Children’s Hospital Colorado, Associate Professor of Dermatology, and Director of the Pediatric Dermatology Fellowship at the University of Colorado. A graduate of Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia in Lima, Peru, she completed her residency training at the Cleveland. She is the only Peruvian physician currently triple board certified in Pediatrics, Dermatology, and Pediatric Dermatology.
Dr. Shapiro is a Pediatrician and healthcare leader with extensive experience in medical education, workforce development, and advocacy. As Director of Workforce Development, he leads the Foundation’s efforts to strengthen physician pipelines, expand training models, and build strategic partnerships for international medical graduates.
Dr. De Alba serves as Assistant Dean for Student Engagement and Associate Professor of Family Medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He earned his medical degree from Universidad Popular Autónoma del Edo. de Puebla (Mexico), an MPH and PhD in Clinical Translational Research from University of Nebraska Medical Center and is a recipient of the NHMA Physician of the Year Award.
Dr. Otañez is a Family Medicine physician and Associate Chief Medical Officer at TrueCare, with more than 15 years of healthcare leadership in Mexico and the United States. A graduate of the Autonomous University of Baja California, he completed the UCLA International Medical Graduate Program and his Family Medicine Residency at UC San Diego, where he served as Chief Resident.
Dr. Isea Mercado is an Internal Medicine physician and Assistant Program Director at AdventHealth Orlando. A graduate of Universidad Central de Venezuela, he completed his residency in Internal Medicine at AdventHealth Orlando and is board certified in Internal Medicine.
Dr. Diaz is a Family Medicine physician with more than fifty years of service in clinical practice, research, and academic leadership. A graduate of the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, he completed his residency and fellowship at UC Davis Medical Center.
The people leading each council and the initiatives behind them.
Dr. Bryan Vintimilla is an ECFMG-certified physician from Ecuador currently preparing for residency training in General Surgery in the United States. He has a strong dedication to medical education, professional development, and peer mentorship, with a particular interest in supporting Latin American IMGs as they pursue the transition into U.S. graduate medical education.
Dr. Carolina Martínez Loya, an International Medical Graduate from Mexico, is dedicated to advancing equitable, community-centered healthcare. Aspiring to specialize in Otolaryngology with interests in ENT and Endocrinology, she embraces a holistic model of care addressing both physical and psychosocial health.
Dr. Daniela Rivera Larios is an International Medical Graduate from Mexico preparing to pursue residency in Anesthesiology. She is deeply committed to advancing equity in healthcare by empowering Latin American physicians and broadening access for underserved communities.
Dr. Jonathan Reyes is a physician from Mexico and graduate of the Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí. With a strong focus on Internal Medicine and Cardiology, he is passionate about advancing academic medicine, research, and advocating for exceptional patient care. As Chair of the LATIMGS Research Council, he leads efforts to engage international medical graduates in research and innovation, creating opportunities for mentorship and scholarly growth.
Dr. Kelly Pérez is a Mexican physician, Assistant Professor, and Research Coordinator committed to advancing opportunities for Latino International Medical Graduates (IMGs). She focuses on fostering collaboration, promoting education, and ensuring IMGs access the tools needed for success in the U.S. medical system.
Dr. Gabriela Bedolla Carriedo is an IMG from Mexico whose journey has been shaped by academic and personal challenges, fueling her commitment to physician wellness and mental health advocacy. She believes that the success of international medical graduates depends not only on medical knowledge and clinical training but also on strong support systems that protect wellbeing.
Dr. Raul Urbina is an IMG from Honduras with a strong interest in psychiatry. His experiences in medical school and the healthcare system have given him firsthand insight into the mental and emotional challenges faced by physicians, inspiring his commitment to physician wellness.
Dr. Andrea Abifaraj Daaboul is an ECFMGcertified physician from Honduras with a strong commitment to primary care, medical education, and health equity. From her earliest years in training, she has been actively engaged in medical brigades and outreach programs across Honduras, where she cultivated a passion for serving underserved communities.
Emilio Berumen is a sixth-year medical student from Mexico completing his internship in Houston, Texas, through LATIMGS Academy. As Chair of the LATIMGS Medical Students Council, he is a driving force in uniting and empowering medical students across Latin America to pursue their dreams in U.S. medicine.
Council leads working alongside the chairs across programs, research and community.
Dr. Helen Ruvalcaba Guerrero is a medical graduate from Anáhuac Xalapa (Mexico), where she was awarded Medical Student Valedictorian. She has successfully passed Step 1 and is currently preparing for Step 2 CK. Through her undergraduate internship and social service with LATIMGS Academy, she gained early experience in clinical research and later served as a Clinical Research Coordinator in Houston, Texas.
Dr. Esther Galvez, an international medical graduate from the Dominican Republic, holds a Master’s in Nutritional Intervention in Emergencies and Disasters. She aspires to pursue residency training in Pulmonary and Critical Care or Emergency Medicine.
Dr.Paulina Michel Razo Banda is an IMG from Mexico passionate about combining patient care with research to create meaningful impact. She has contributed to a wide range of projects, including observational, retrospective, and cross-sectional studies, as well as case reports, systematic reviews, and metaanalyses—experiences that have shaped her perspective as a future medical researcher. Her main interests are internal medicine and oncology.
Dr. Jennifer Rodas is an ECFMG-certified international medical graduate from Ecuador preparing to apply for residency in Internal Medicine. Passionate about mentorship and community building, she joined LATIMGS after experiencing its supportive and collaborative spirit.
Ana is a fourth-year medical student at Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, originally from Venezuela. She is passionate about bridging science, clinical care, and community, with experience leading cardiology initiatives, contributing to genomics research, and presenting her work at international institutions.
Dr. Nitzia Quilantan is an international medical graduate from Mexico who earned her medical degree at Universidad del Noreste (Tampico). She is passionate about oncology and currently works as a Clinical Studies Coordinator at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, where she contributes to clinical research and patient care.
Dr. Ana Mendoza is an international medical graduate from Mexico who earned her medical degree at Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua. She currently works as a Clinical Studies Coordinator in the Phase I ICT Department at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, where she contributes to advancing research and patient care.
Dr. Ahued earned his medical degree from Universidad Anáhuac Veracruz, graduating with academic distinction and contributing to research on antimicrobial resistance in diabetic patients. He completed his internship at the High Specialty Regional Hospital ISSSTE Veracruz, where he ranked among the top performers in national examinations.
Dr. Anggie Renteria is an International Medical Graduate from Colombia and a Clinical Research Coordinator with a strong interest in cancer biology, radiology, and therapeutic innovation. As Mental Health Lead for LATIMGS, she advocates for the emotional well-being, mental health, and resilience of International Medical Graduates navigating the challenges of medical training abroad.
The LATIMGS Council brings together physicians, mentors, educators and collaborators who support clinical, research and community initiatives.
Guidance from physicians and mentors who understand the IMG pathway and support students through key career decisions.
Support for research exposure, academic development and preparation for competitive U.S. medical opportunities.
Collaboration with institutions, sponsors and community leaders committed to expanding access for Latin American IMGs.
Are you passionate about supporting Latin American medical graduates and sharing the LATIMGS mission in your country? Become a LATIMGS Ambassador and make a meaningful impact in your medical community.
Promote LATIMGS programs in your region.
Guide and support fellow international medical graduates.
Build a strong, engaged local network of future healthcare leaders.
Exclusive discounts on clinical rotations.
Ongoing personalized support throughout your medical journey from the LATIMGS team.
Opportunities for leadership, networking, and professional development within an international medical community.
LATIMGS grows through the institutions, sponsors and people who believe in expanding access to medical careers. Partnerships open doors for students; funding keeps the programs, mentorship and resources running.
Tax-deductible. LATIMGS Foundation is a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
LATIMGS collaborates with the universities, medical associations, foundations and community health organizations currently connected to the initiative.
University relationships and academic partners supporting medical education pathways across Latin America.
Medical associations, foundations and community health organizations connected to the LATIMGS ecosystem.
Answers to common questions about LATIMGS programs, observerships, eligibility and support.
Programs are designed for international medical students and graduates from Latin America, physicians seeking exposure to the U.S. healthcare system, and individuals aiming to enhance residency applications through U.S.-based experience.
A clinical observership is a short-term experience where participants shadow U.S.-licensed physicians to observe patient care, medical procedures and hospital operations. Benefits can include insight into U.S. medical practice, stronger CV positioning, letters of recommendation when appropriate and professional networking.
International participants typically require a B-1 visa for short-term observerships. LATIMGS may provide a visa support letter, but it is not an immigration law firm and cannot guarantee visa approval.
Upon successful completion of the observership and demonstration of professionalism, participants may request a personalized letter of recommendation from their supervising physician.
Specialties may include Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Surgery, Cardiology, Neurology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anesthesiology and other areas depending on program availability.