3 vs 4 year EM Residency Programs

Started by Cody1MD
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Cody1MD

USF MPH/DrPH
15+ Year Member
20+ Year Member
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Hi.

I am confused on deciding between a 3 vs 4 yr program as my #1 spot to rank. What are the positives and negatives with regards to 3 yr program vs a 4 yr program?

I am also thinking of persuing a Fellowship in Emergency Ultrasound after residency. What role does the length of a residency program have on persuing a fellowship in EM ?

Thanks.
 
Cody1MD said:
Hi.

I am confused on deciding between a 3 vs 4 yr program as my #1 spot to rank. What are the positives and negatives with regards to 3 yr program vs a 4 yr program?

I am also thinking of persuing a Fellowship in Emergency Ultrasound after residency. What role does the length of a residency program have on persuing a fellowship in EM ?

Thanks.

Read the FAQs above. And no, fellowships are generallly accepting of both 3 and 4 year grads.

- H
 
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Cody1MD said:
Hi.

I am confused on deciding between a 3 vs 4 yr program as my #1 spot to rank. What are the positives and negatives with regards to 3 yr program vs a 4 yr program?

I am also thinking of persuing a Fellowship in Emergency Ultrasound after residency. What role does the length of a residency program have on persuing a fellowship in EM ?

Thanks.

FYI: if you are leaning toward an academic (ie research or aiming for a position in the professoriate) position ultimately, many would recommend an 4 year program. The 4th year should offer you an opportunity to do more electives, hone your critical care skills, explore areas of EM you wouldn't otherwise see.

I wouldn't base your match decision on that, though -- rank programs in the order you like them. If it's a mix of 3 and 4, that's okay. You will spend so much time with these people -- you MUST enjoy them!
 
FYI: if you are leaning toward an academic (ie research or aiming for a position in the professoriate) position ultimately, many would recommend an 4 year program.

Many = mostly the people who are in 4 year programs which is about a quarter of the people in emergency medicine. So Many < Most.
 
Seaglass said:
Many = mostly the people who are in 4 year programs which is about a quarter of the people in emergency medicine. So Many < Most.

I should also point out that I know plenty of 3 year program graduates that are in academics. If you really really want another year of training, you can always do a fellowship after residency. You just aren't compelled to do a fourth year of work in 3 year program, as opposed to a 4 year program. Optional, but not mandatory.
 
We have a very competitive U/S fellowship. No wieght is given to 3 vs 4. (more weight to chief resident, u/s experience, etc).

doing an elective here makes it more likely (if done well) that you will get an interview.