Is it somewhat common for people to do 2 residencies?

[golfman]

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I have a buddy who did an Internal Medicine Residency, and then did an ER Residency. He works part time at both.

Is this very common? Is it tough to get a new residency, or fellowship, position if you decide later on down the road to do something else? Do programs frown upon that?

I don't think I'll be that person, but I was just curious to see if what my friend did is somewhat common or very strange.

 

[lord_jeebus]

It's not that uncommon - there are several career-shifters in my residency program.

What I think is rare is working in both fields.

 

[Buzz Me]

Switching fields is not uncommon, but trying to simultaneously practice in both fields is.

(Obviously, this excludes the people who intentionally went for double-board or triple-board certification, e.g. Med/Peds, Adult/Child Psych, etc.)

 

[golfman]

Interesting. Is it typically harder to get a residency spot if you are switching specialities? Or is it easier because you have more experience?

 

[Winged Scapula]

Interesting. Is it typically harder to get a residency spot if you are switching specialities? Or is it easier because you have more experience?

Typically harder. There is a limit on funding and in most cases, unless you are switching from a longer residency to a shorter residency (and early on), you will have used some of the fundings, leaving your second residency without full $$ for you.

This doesn't include issues like why you were leaving, under what conditions, etc. that may make one a less than attractive candidate.