I am a fourth year ARMY HPSP student interested in Ortho. I am wondering if I should try deferring residency (I will be competitive at some good programs and would love to stay near my home state). I have completed some ADTs, and I generally liked the programs. I could be happy at several of the Army locations. However, on one of my interviews, an Army doc actually suggested that I apply for a deferral because, while the Army programs provide great training, the civilian programs may have better name recognition for future fellowships etc. My goal, like almost every applicant, is to get into the best possible program (both in terms of training and name). If I could stick around my home program, that would be icing on the cake. That being said, I would be fine going away to TAMC, MAMC, Brooke, etc. These are my specific questions:
I appreciate any and all advice, and I would also love to hear your thoughts on the strengths/weaknesses of the Army programs.
Thanks.
- What is the deferral based upon? I have no small kids, dying relatives, etc. that tie me down at this point.
- Does applying for deferral hurt your Army application? If I apply but do not get a deferral, I would hate to hurt my application. I have a strong opinion about some of the programs and would not want to get the bottom of my Army rank list.
- What effect, if any, does an Army residency have on your ability to pursue academic medicine and/or fellowship after your commitment is complete.
I appreciate any and all advice, and I would also love to hear your thoughts on the strengths/weaknesses of the Army programs.
Thanks.
