Obtaining a PGY2 spot for 2011

[AVMED]

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Im a Navy GMO interested in MSK / Sports medicine. I was overconfident and being that travel is difficult from my location I only applied to 4 programs last year, of which only some of the positions were advanced (I certainly do not want to repeat an internship again).

To make a long story very short, I did not match at any of the programs.

So this year I have two options, I can apply through the regular match again which I plan to do, but I can also look for open PGY2 spots for this year if they become available.

So I have several questions if anybody can help out.

• What is the process for finding out about open spots? Do you just fax your resume to lots of different places? Also what is the time frame for doing so (late summer / fall?)
• I definitely need to apply to more programs, and programs with more Advanced positions for this next cycle. Anybody know any of the larger programs that have a good MSK/Sports reputation? Although I like the feel of small programs better, I think they get their pick from students that rotate there for a month or so, which unfortunately as a non student I would imagine is impossible for me to do.

Thanks in advance for the replies.

 

[promethius]

There is no set way for finding out about outside-the-Match spots. It is a dynamic process, and spots may become available for whatever reason at any time. The best way is to call up the individual programs and see if they have any or anticipate having any. You can also check on here, through the AAPM&R website, or just apply through the Match and state you are interested in starting in 2011 if the particular programs you applied to have such spots open.

When you apply through the upcoming Match, it is always better to apply broadly, so you have the option of canceling interviews if you get too many than not having enough interviews, as it is partly a numbers game.

One particular large program that I felt had a good MSK/Sports reputation was UT Southwestern, which takes nine residents per year, but that more than likely had to do with the fact that they had a fellowship in that field. Otherwise, I'll defer to other people on this forum to answer your latter question. Hope that helps.

 

[AVMED]

Thanks for the info. It is kind of a 180 for me applying to large programs, I actually applied to Dallas Baylor last year, because I was seeking small programs, but I think in the end that really hurt my chances.

I was definatly thinking of UTSW this time around. I need to maximize my chances this time around by having more availible spots at each place I interview.

I also plan on just living on the mainland for a month this time around so it will be easier to do more interviews with waisting so much time and cost getting back and forth.

 

[C Chance]

Is it possible/difficult to switch into PM&R from IM PGY-1?

 

[PMR 4 MSK]

Is it possible/difficult to switch into PM&R from IM PGY-1?

Quite common, as far as transfers in to the field.