Need help with the lingo!

[Teufelhunden]

---

Members do not see this ad.

I was hoping someone could clear up for me the meanings of the following terms when applied to GME training: categorical year, transitional year, preliminary year, etc.

 

[Ctrhu]

Transitional Year is like a repeat of the MS3 year, with more responsibility. Many choose this when they haven't made up their minds and will reapply. This can be considered the required Preliminary year for many programs.
Preliminary Year is a required year for many specialties. In Opthalmology, Derm, Rad etc., this usually means IM. For surgical subspecialties like Urology, ENT etc., this means General Surgery. Some residency programs allow you to do your prelim year anywhere, others are integrated and you don't have a choice.
Categorical Year means residency time in the particular specialty.