Failed Step 1....What to do next

[doctordude1]

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I have horrible testing anxiety and I found out I am ADD so I cannot finish tests on time. The NBOME wouldn't give me extended time for step 1 boards and I failed step 1 after studying for about a year. My school said it would be best to try something different.
I wanted to be a doctor all my life but this priority became less as I found out about my horrible anxiety in med school. also, the NBOME wouldn't give me extended time so I had to try ADD medicine which made me depressed.

I want to take some time off from school, but I want to come back to a medical career eventually.

Is there any possibility of trying Step 1 again and transferring into another school's 3rd year?

I have considered the possibility of becoming a PA since I realized I needed balance in my life. I need sleep and exercise.

Is there any possibility of transferring credits to a PA school or would I have to start from day 1 at a PA school?

I wanted to be a doctor but I had a tough time finishing all the questions on step 1 in time with my anxiety and ADD. Any other advice or suggestions for my situation?

 

[RedSoxSuck]

I have horrible testing anxiety and I found out I am ADD so I cannot finish tests on time. The NBOME wouldn't give me extended time for step 1 boards and I failed step 1 after studying for about a year. My school said it would be best to try something different.
I wanted to be a doctor all my life but this priority became less as I found out about my horrible anxiety in med school. also, the NBOME wouldn't give me extended time so I had to try ADD medicine which made me depressed.

I want to take some time off from school, but I want to come back to a medical career eventually.

Is there any possibility of trying Step 1 again and transferring into another school's 3rd year?

I have considered the possibility of becoming a PA since I realized I needed balance in my life. I need sleep and exercise.

Is there any possibility of transferring credits to a PA school or would I have to start from day 1 at a PA school?

I wanted to be a doctor but I had a tough time finishing all the questions on step 1 in time with my anxiety and ADD. Any other advice or suggestions for my situation?

Hey,

First of all, i am really sorry to hear your dilemma. I won't say that i know how you feel because i am not sure if i do. Even though, i had my MCAT struggles and had to take that damn test many times but i prevailed so i kind of know what you are going through.

I would suggest to take some time off and really think about what you want and your circumstances. As far as not being able to focus, you should talk to your doctor regarding perhaps changing your medication if adderall/ritalin/concerta is not working. Perhaps ask your doctor to contact NBME regarding providing proof for your situation. I am just assuming that they did not buy your story. But i can be way off.

As far as going to PA school goes, it all comes down to you. Only you know what is it that you truly want. And if you are willing to do whatever it is necessary to accomplish your goals. If you think going to a PA school is for you and if you won't regret this decision then it might be for the best. But you have to make that call. Right now, you might not be clear headed and might be emotion/disappointment driven so take some time off (couple of weeks etc) to clear your head and look into your options and then go from there.

Remember, it is never as bad as it seems. I hope everything works out for you and you make the right and well informed decision with a clear head. Wish you best of luck.

 

[WarriorMD]

Hey, I can't offer much advice on the exam other then, keep your head up and go for it again... you already know most of the stuff a bit, now it's just time to add in the missing pieces!

As for your adhd, I have done a LOT of research on the treatments and different regimens to help, if you want to PM me for info and tell me what meds you were taking and doses and what you experienced on them I MAYY be able to provide insight.

Joining an add related forum will also prove to be beneficial.