DO-PhD to pediatric subspecialty

[Singingpremed]

---

Members do not see this ad.

I am currently debating between an MD/JD and a DO/PhD program. Both are focused on bioethics. I'm currently researching my options and deciding whether I want the theoretical or practical training in bioethics. I hope to go into a pediatric subspecialty (thinking neonatology, pediatric critical care, or peds hemo-onc) and do scholarly work in pediatric ethics.

Is there any disadvantage to being a DO in these specialties? Is there an advantage as far as medical practice is concerned to either degree?

Thanks for your help!

 

[drbetty]

I am currently debating between an MD/JD and a DO/PhD program. Both are focused on bioethics. I'm currently researching my options and deciding whether I want the theoretical or practical training in bioethics. I hope to go into a pediatric subspecialty (thinking neonatology, pediatric critical care, or peds hemo-onc) and do scholarly work in pediatric ethics.

Is there any disadvantage to being a DO in these specialties? Is there an advantage as far as medical practice is concerned to either degree?

Thanks for your help!

Go with the MD/JD route. With all do respect to the DO programs that can certainly prepare you to a career in pediatrics and its subspecialties, you will have far more doors open for you with and MD, especially in academia.

 

[PMinty44]

I agree with drbetty. It's not necessarily fair, but it is true: far easier route to climbing the ranks of academia as an MD.

 

[kristing]

yeah I don't know about this. As a current Do in a peds research program, my MPH was amazingly helpful and I assume a PhD will open many many doors, especially compared to the JD in terms of medical school academic routes I think.

That's a tough call. If it were MD-PhD and DO-PhD I would agree with the above posters. But it's not.