Dr. Pedro Juan Vázquez Balances Dual Careers, Combats Health Crisis in Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — On a recent morning in a vibrant Afro-Caribbean neighborhood in northeast Puerto Rico, Dr. Pedro Juan Vázquez commenced his medical rounds, a practice that has become as integral to his identity as his music career. The 34-year-old physician, widely recognized in Puerto Rico under his stage name PJ Sin Suela, was observed engaging with elderly residents, extending a warm "Good afternoon!" and a friendly smile as he offered to take their vital signs.

For many in the community, this act of medical care from a well-known rapper-turned-doctor was both surprising and appreciated. One resident, a man in a gray tank top, opened his screen door with interest and agreed to a health assessment on his porch, exemplifying the unique convergence of Vázquez’s dual professions.

A Dual Career: Music and Medicine

Dr. Pedro Juan Vázquez represents a rare amalgamation of talents and dedication in Puerto Rico. As PJ Sin Suela, he is celebrated in the music industry, striving to blend his passion for music with a profound commitment to healthcare. His efforts are aimed at raising awareness about a severe health crisis impacting the island’s 3.2 million residents. Puerto Rico is currently facing acute power outages and a critical shortage of medical professionals, issues compounded by the migration of many seeking better opportunities on the U.S. mainland.

According to a 2023 report by The Center for a New Economy, Puerto Rico has experienced a loss of over 8,600 doctors out of nearly 18,800 in just over a decade. This troubling trend highlights a looming healthcare crisis that Vázquez describes as "much bigger than people think." The ongoing exodus of young professionals continues to strain the island’s already fragile healthcare system, necessitating urgent attention and intervention.

From the Stage to the Clinic

Vázquez’s dedication to medicine complements his thriving music career. After obtaining his medical degree in 2015 from Bayamón, Puerto Rico, where he had returned to complete his studies, Vázquez achieved significant recognition in 2018 with his hit single “Cuál Es Tu Plan?” This track, a collaboration with renowned Puerto Rican artists Bad Bunny and Ñejo, propelled him to fame and led to further collaborations with notable figures such as Broadway star Lin-Manuel Miranda and René Pérez, known as Residente, from the reggaetón duo Calle 13.

When the COVID-19 pandemic emerged in 2020, Vázquez shifted his focus from music to medicine, dedicating himself full-time to a hospital in Ponce. His commitment to patient care was evident as he navigated the complexities of treating a diverse patient population, many of whom were excited to be cared for by a celebrity physician. Despite initial skepticism from some colleagues regarding his qualifications, Vázquez quickly demonstrated his proficiency and dedication, earning respect and affirming his commitment to both fields.

Addressing the Crisis

Beyond his medical practice, Vázquez actively engages in mobile clinics, partnering with nonprofits such as Direct Relief to reach underserved communities across Puerto Rico. His efforts are particularly crucial in areas affected by natural disasters, including hurricanes and earthquakes. In September 2022, Vázquez notably assisted in Hormigueros, providing medical check-ups to families struggling in the wake of Hurricane Fiona.

Despite his efforts, Vázquez faces persistent challenges due to frequent power outages, a pervasive issue affecting both his medical and musical endeavors. The lack of a generator at his recording studio has led to interruptions in his creative work. More critically, power outages in central and southern Puerto Rico exacerbate challenges for patients, particularly during extreme heat conditions.

A Legacy of Service and Music

Despite these obstacles, Vázquez remains steadfast in his dual pursuits. He continues to produce and perform music that addresses urgent social issues such as economic disparity, gun violence, and social inequality. His songs, including “Las Balas Lloran” and “Somos Más,” reflect his deep engagement with the struggles faced by his community, resonating with local audiences and Puerto Ricans living abroad.

As Vázquez prepares to release a new album, he balances his medical duties with his musical career, leveraging his celebrity status to highlight Puerto Rico’s health crisis and galvanize support. His approach involves mobilizing volunteers for mobile clinics, demonstrating a profound commitment to service and community support.

Dr. Pedro Juan Vázquez’s distinctive journey—merging his roles as a physician and musician—illuminates a remarkable dedication to addressing Puerto Rico’s healthcare needs while using his platform to advocate for social change. His dual career continues to inspire and impact many, representing a commendable fusion of professional expertise and artistic passion.