My chances- PMR

[Runderwoman]

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So I am in a bit of a predicament due to my USMLE score. I'll give you my stats.

I'm a MS3 DO student.
USMLE 196 -I know 🙁
COMLEX- 515
Good grades, doing well on rotations. Doing all PMR electives...and trying for field-related research.

Do I have a chance at an allopathic program?

 

[oreosandsake]

they will all be ACGME programs in the future.

do well on comlex II.

rotate somewhere and do well on the rotation. do the rotation early and get a nice letter to show other programs you are a good student and will be a good resident. you have a good shot at matching where you rotate if they like you.

 

[Bill E Kin]

From the 2011 Charting Outcomes in the Match regarding PM&R:

• Out of the Independent Applicants (US international students/grads, foreign medical students/grads, US allo grads, and DOs) with USMLE Step 1 scores between 191-200, 19 matched and 18 did not match.
• Somewhat strangely, out of the Independent Applicants with USMLE Step 1 scores between 201-210, 12 matched and 17 did not match.

The stats aren't broken down for DOs specifically, so it's hard to say how they are looked at in comparison to other independent applicants.

From what I have gathered on the interview trail, PM&R is getting more competitive. However, I also feel that PM&R is truly one of the specialties that looks at your whole profile and gives significant consideration to other factors (how well you work on a team, volunteering, etc.). Having said that, I was unhappy with my USMLE Step 1 score (as it was lower than my predicted score on practice tests) so I decided to take the USMLE Step 2 CK before starting my 4th year rotations. I had my score before filing ERAS and I showed a significant improvement from Step 1 (this came up on some of my interviews), and I honestly think this factored into getting better interview offers than I originally expected to receive.

I agree with oreosandsake about the away rotation. I know you're required to take Comlex II, but I would also consider taking Step 2 CK as I would think it would allow for better comparison with other applicants.

 

[Runderwoman]

Thank you both for your input.

I am currently deciding whether or not I want to take USMLE step 2. I may even ask one of the program directors at the program where I am currently rotating what they would prefer me to do.


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[lejeunesage]

I would try to take step 2 early and get a better score if I were you.
I think you still have a chance.
I'd apply to more programs than most: say 40-50 programs. All you need is about 8 to 10 interviews. The lower your score the more programs you should apply to.
An away rotation at a lower-tier program is also a good idea. Lower tier means less competition. It also does NOT mean lesser quality of education.

 

[Runderwoman]

I completely agree! Thank you! I just got a MSK research spot an one of the programs that is high on my list. I think this will be a big help.