What was a contributing factor to the exodus of medical personnel from Puerto Rico?

The exodus of medical personnel from Puerto Rico has been significantly influenced by the promise of higher salaries in the mainland United States. Many healthcare professionals seek better financial opportunities, which can be much more lucrative compared to what they earn in Puerto Rico. This economic motivation drives skilled workers to relocate to areas where there is a higher demand for healthcare services and better compensation packages, ultimately leading to a decline in the availability of medical professionals on the island.

While poor working conditions and a lack of medical facilities may also affect the overall healthcare environment in Puerto Rico, the availability of higher salaries in the U.S. remains a primary factor that prompts healthcare workers to seek employment elsewhere. This search for better compensation illustrates the broader trend of workforce migration that can impact healthcare systems in both local and global contexts.