EM Trained Physician Qualified to Function/Practice as a GP?

[16846]

---

Members don't see this ad.

I know for a number of years that the ABEM & ABFP have argued over whether FP-Trained physicians are qualified to function/practice in the context of an ER setting. However, I am looking at this from the opposite perspective. Is an EM-Trained physician qualified to Function/Practice as a GP (in the same capacity as an FP-Trained physician)? I have been strongly considering a specialty in EM, but want the possibility of opening my own general/family practice in the future without having to do another residency. Any information is appreciated.

Mike

 

[ckent]

Some still do allow physicians who have completed at least one year of residency in any specialty (including EM) to function as a GP, particularly those states with underserved rural areas. You will have a lot to learn if you want to convert from EM to GP later in your career though.

 

[Winged Scapula]

With a license to practice medicine, you are considered "qualified" and may set up shop as a GP even without completing any residency. The realities of doing so, and doing it well are another matter entirely (ie, can you be a good GP without IM or Fp training?).

In addition, Medicare reimbursement (which may affect a lot of your patients) and some insurance companies are insisting on the "proper" training for certain diagnoses or procedures (ie, they won't reimburse a GP for doing Colonoscopies, etc.). You would be well advised to check with the State Board in the state in which you plan to practice on any restrictions.

 

[docB]

This thread was posted here and on the EM board so I'm sure one of them will get nixed. Here's what I said on the EM board:

I firmly believe that EM trained doctors are not qualified to be primary care docs. We are not trained in the incremental management of chronic diseases, preventive medicine and other acpects of primary care. Byond these factors we must have enough humility to admit that we are not trained to do their jobs if we argue that they are not trained to do ours. If you really want to do EM and have an office practice I suggest doing one of the EM/IM programs out there.

 

[ERMudPhud]

Originally posted by docB
This thread was posted here and on the EM board so I'm sure one of them will get nixed. Here's what I said on the EM board:

I firmly believe that EM trained doctors are not qualified to be primary care docs. We are not trained in the incremental management of chronic diseases, preventive medicine and other acpects of primary care. Byond these factors we must have enough humility to admit that we are not trained to do their jobs if we argue that they are not trained to do ours. If you really want to do EM and have an office practice I suggest doing one of the EM/IM programs out there.

Couldn't agree more plus don't forget all the OB/prenatal training that most FP's get that we don't get.