Apply to EM and back-up at same hospital?

[Dr Terrier MD]

Hi. I'm a 4th year US IMG from SGU applying to EM this year. I really want to do EM, but based on how competitive it's gotten, I know I need a back-up. My plan is to apply for Prelim IM spots, so that I would be able to try again next year.

That said, is it a bad idea to apply for both of these at these at the same hospital? Would applying for Prelim IM somehow convey that I'm not committed to EM? I know this subject has been talked about, but I've heard so many conflicting opinions, including from my school who said it was ok.

I was wondering what people in a similar situation ended up doing and why.

Thanks!

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[K31]

Applying to two categorical programs at the same institution could cause some (especially those in the less competitive specialty) to question your committment, but applying to EM plus prelims shouldn't create that issue at all.