PhD for 56 y/o FMG?

[PatelSwe]

I hope this is the right thread!
This thread is for my parents. We just moved to America. Me and both my parents are FMGs. I was looking into options we have and came across the PhD programs. I figured it might be good enough for my parents as they have had experience in research although not substantial. I am planning on giving USMLE however my parents have the desire to be in the medical field now i know its difficult for them at this age and stuff but i actually like PhD route.
PS: Are FMGs with PhD considered physician scientists?

Thank you !

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[Medstart108]

FMGs with PhDs can be called physician scientists but they cannot do any clinical work unless they are licensed and they will take jobs only PhDs can take, so the MD will just be a degree that is not being used.

At their age, I don't think PhD is a good option. They are at the age of retirement not learning. The brain's ability declines with age and honestly there is no purpose in doing a PhD. They will graduate earliest at 60 which is about the age when most retire. Not a good plan. Since you are an attending, you should be thinking of taking care of your parents when they retire.

 

[QofQuimica]

If your parents are MDs in your home country, they don't need PhDs to get involved with research, especially if they want to do clinical research. They can just apply for research jobs. If they want to do basic research, they still don't need a PhD to do that. I'd suggest applying for a research fellowship in their specialty area. They'd get a fellow-level pay, but it beats slinging burgers, and it would give them a chance to build contacts and hopefully transition into a permanent research job.

As for you, do you have to do a residency? I'm assuming yes since you're taking the USMLE. In that case, study hard, and best of luck.

 

[PatelSwe]

I /used/ to be an attending. It will take me 2-3 years to get into residency. But i know i will get it. I m fresh out of residency in my home country so i am still in that study mode so it might not be that difficult.

My parents dont want to sit at home. In their words " We have been easy on weekends too for last 25-30 years.This sitting at home and doing nothing is getting difficult for us." So here I am on a quest to find something in the medical field that they can do and enjoy doing. I Just wish it wasnt this difficult for foreign doctors to practice in USA, especially people who have been doctors for more then 50% of their entire life.

Thanks both of you. This really helps.