jumping ship... need advice

[MD98]

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I have always secretly wanted to go into EM.. BUT for a variety of dumb reasons decided to go into surgery. I didnt even apply for EM or bother getting EM letters etc..

So here I am: matched into a great categorical surgery program but want to jump ship to EM next year. (or even FP if all else fails)

I know I am more or less committed to doing my PGY-1 at my matched program, but am I free after that first year?

Also, how do I apply for EM without being blackballed in my current program? I can just see the look on my PD's face when I tell him I want to leave for EM. Esp since he has a typical staunch anti-EM attitude. I might as well quit then since my life will be hell.

Won't the EM PD's want to hear from my current PD?

Is it possible? or am I hoping against hope?

Thanks

MD98

 

[mojo]

Most programs will require a letter from your current program director. People do jump ship all the time. The key is not leaving your program hanging. The worst way is to notify your program ten minutes after your shift started that you've rethought your career. After you're absolutely sure you're jumping ship, let your director know as early as possible. It'll give them more time to look for a replacement and the residency won't necessarily be all that mad.
As far as how long you're stuck, programs only sign you to one year at a time. Frequently, there are vacancies for advanced positions, including some that never go onto the SAEM web site and are filled within the facility.

 

[droliver]

I'd wait until around November or December to declare your intentions if you still feel the same way. It will leave hard feelings if you dropped that on a PD at this point in time (assuming you hadn't found a position in EM you wanted to take right now).

 

[Sutureboy]

Since you matched, it's always better to take the high road and give it a shot. If you then decide to switch, how you do it (not leaving your first program too much in the lurch) is more improtant than the reference from your PD. Most EM PDs know that surgeons can be nasty about this and ignore it.