Changing programs

[katdo]

---

Members don't see this ad.

A friend of mine is in the process of changing programs and specialties. The problem is that he needs time to relocate for the new program and the PD at his old program is threatening to take away any credit for the past year if he leaves a month early. Also, the PD won't allow him to take the last 2 weeks of vacation at the end. What is the protocol for switching programs? Can you break your contract and still get credit for your past years residency work? Anyone else been through this?

 

[familyfirst]

A friend of mine is in the process of changing programs and specialties. The problem is that he needs time to relocate for the new program and the PD at his old program is threatening to take away any credit for the past year if he leaves a month early. Also, the PD won't allow him to take the last 2 weeks of vacation at the end. What is the protocol for switching programs? Can you break your contract and still get credit for your past years residency work? Anyone else been through this?

I am changing my residency program. Your friend's Program Director can't threaten him. I am so glad that he is leaving the program because the PD sounds mean. Whatevery the reason your friend has for leaving should be ok because the contract is only for one year. After that, every resident is free to go anywhere. They can't take away his credentials for the past year unless his performance is very very bad. And he is entitled to his last two weeks of vacation. For God's Sake, your friend signed a contract.

Now with that said, your friend should ask the new program for 1-2 weeks to relocate. It sounds like the old program is not very understanding. Every resident has rights. Just because we signed a contract and working insane amount of hours, we are still human beings and have rights. PDs don't control us. Your friend can resign but if he has one more month to go, just ask the new program for 1-2 weeks to relocate. Don't burn any bridges. It is a small world after all. But your friend who looks through his contract, contact the Graduate Medical Education office in his program. The Dean in that office should be his advoate. But again, be careful who and what he said because nothing is really confidential. Best of luck to him.