I'm a currently practicing PT, for past 7-8 years. Due to numerous restrictions on what I can do for my patient clinically, I came across an idea of applying for DO program. I had finished my bio degree which was designed for pre-med students, so I did complete all required pre-reqs, but this was more than 12 years ago. I am trying to see how I can even begin studying for MCAT, but not really clear where to even begin. Does anyone have any good suggested study plan? I will basically have to re-study all the subjects that are listed for MCAT.
DPT applying for DO program
- Thread starter dpttodo
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My advice is Make sure you are willing to commit to another 7 Year’s of education minimum. Is it really worth it? If you are dead set of doing it, I would crack open a few MCAT review books and stretch your brain for info from over a decade ago. The general way of studying for the MCAT is to do 1-2 months of pure content review (with basic associated questions) followed by a month of practice exams and question review. Because you’ve been out of school for an extended period of time, your miles may vary.
My opinion, it ain’t worth it. N=1
My opinion, it ain’t worth it. N=1
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It really comes down to what you're willing to do, no one can really answer this for you. Some people would be fine with beginning their practice relatively late in life because its their passion, while others wouldn't because of the time commitment/other factors (family, cost of relocating, etc.). You seem to be aware that studying for the MCAT is going to be a lot of work in itself because it has been so long since you visited these subjects. If I were you, I'd study for the MCAT and reevaluate my options after I got my score back. If you get > ~505, maybe its time to consider applying DO if you are okay with committing another 7 years (4 years of medical school + 3 year (minimum) residency) to your medical education. I suspect you are in your 30s/early 40s considering how much experience you have in PT, so its important to ask yourself if you're okay with beginning your practice in your 40's. On the other hand, if you get a bad score on the MCAT, it may not be worth it to spend all of that $$ with applications, interviews, travel costs, etc. However, to your credit, a lower MCAT score MAY be compensated by your experience/PS story.
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What restrictions are preventing you from helping your patients the way you want and what will a DO/MD degree provide you that you don't already have? Becoming a physician is a long, hard, expensive, and very stressful path. This can be especially true for someone who has previously had a career and has become accustomed to a certain lifestyle. I was the same way and I can say going from earning a steady paycheck to taking out loans and watching my bank account dwindle effected me more than I thought it would. So again, what will you be gaining from pursuing this route that you don't already have? Keep in mind it will likely be at least a decade before you actually start reaping the fruits of the labor you're considering pursuing.
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Post-bac program for career switchers (or do it DIY) -> take MCAT.
If you do well in the above, apply to med school
If you do mediocre, consider an SMP.
