Switching from rads to anesthesia

There are several similar threads. However, to review, here's what you would need to do:

1. You first need a match waiver from your future radiology program. You've matched for the July 2014 year, so that match is still "pending". As long as you file a request with the NRMP by January and state that the reason for the waiver request is that you've changed your mind about your field, you'll get the waiver -- but expect it to take at least 3 weeks.

2. To answer the question you're probably now thinking -- Yes, you must give up your rads spot first, then look for an anesthesia spot. You can't keep your rads spot, and then give it up if you find an anesthesia spot to replace it with. This can be scary since there's always some chance you won't get an anesthesia spot, and end up with nothing. As a good US grad, chances of ending up with absolutely nothing are unlikely, but certainly possible.

3. Once you have your waiver, you can then apply to anesthesia spots. Problem is, you'll be quite late to do so. Theoretically, you're not allowed to apply until you have the waiver in hand. Realistically if you do, it's unlikely that anyone will care. Even if you start the application process today, you're quite late and I can't tell you what your chances of getting an anesthesia spot are.

4. All anesthesia PGY-1 and PGY-2 spots are in the match. You'll have the option of applying for Categorical (PGY-1 starting July 2014 [you'd be repeating your intern year]), Advanced (PGY-2 starting July 2015 [you'd have a gap year, where you'd need to find something to do]), or Reserved / Physician Only spots (PGY-2 starting July 2014). The "R" spots are the one's that are perfect for you. Looking at the NRMP site, there are about 30 programs with R positions listed. Remember that more spots may appear -- when you tell your PD that you're dropping out of Rads, they will now have an R position to list.

5. You'll need to get your ERAS application started ASAP. You get your token from your medical school -- it's very easy, simply contact their Dean of Student's office. You will need a letter from your current prelim PD. You'll also need some anesthesia letters, presumably.

6. You'll need to think about how you'll get time to interview. Your prelim program may be flexible, or may not.

7. Talking to the anesthesia PD at your current program would be a very good idea. If they have an open spot, that might make everything much easier.

8. Another option is to try and find an anesthesia PGY-1 that is currently open (presumably because someone left). If you find one, you could quit your current PGY-1 and transition into the anesthesia PGY-1. You'd need to give your current program adequate notice (at least 3 months). Finding an open PGY-1 in anesthesia invovles contactating programs directly (unless there is a centralized list).

9. If all that fails, you can participate in SOAP. This is not a good plan, but there's always a chance.

10. You'll need a plan B. I think that if you applied on time, with letters, etc, you'll get an anesthesia position. But let's say you simply can't make it all happen fast enough this year, and can't find a spot. In that case, you need to find employment for next year, and then start this process all over again.

Changes things somewhat. If you've matched at a categorical rads spot, then you don't need a match waiver.

You'll still need an LOR from the PD.

You'll still likely need to resign from your current spot while looking for a new spot. Your PD will put the spot into the match as an R position.