OD to MD

[mdod]

Hi,
I was wondering if there are some ODs (Optometrists) here thinking about going to med school or taking prerequisite classes for med school. I have a degree and licence in optometry and I love the profession but there are things I can't do as an optometrist eg cataract surgery, lasik etc. I have been in practice for 7 years but something in me keep telling me to go back to MD school and be an eye surgeon. If i can't get into ophthalmology residency, I can't take family medicine. I listened to that inner voice and am now taking classes for med school requirement(making AAAs) and plan to take MCAT in about 2 or 3 years from now. I have an optometry practice and plan to work weekends if I get into med school. I plan to hire an optometrist to work in my practice if I get into med school. Meanwhile am not young anymore(40yo) and married with 3 kids. Am I alone in this thought process and is it a good idea to think in this way?

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[Shnurek]

I mean if you want to do surgery move to Oklahoma or wait for legislation to change in your state

But Med school is good too. It is useful knowledge no matter what residency you get in to. As humans we always push for more and wish to be greater. So sometimes I do not listen to that voice and sometimes it is very useful and keeps me going.

The decision is your personal choice and if this is what you want to do then I wish you good luck in your studies and enjoy them

 

[NatashaColorado]

this is very ambitious of you! Our professor at SUNY, who has been teaching human anatomy for over 30 years, mentioned ONE student he knew who went to NYU med school after getting an OD degree. ONE! so, this is very uncommon, but possible.

 

[al074755]

Have you tried talking to a MD/DO school to see if you can bypass the traditional requirements? You are most definitely not a 'traditional' student and I'm sure with your background you would rock medical school.

 

[ABaverage]

It will be at least another 10 years before you can tend to your "calling" to become an ophthalmologist. You will be in your 50's, mind you. It just doesn't seem worth it at this point, but if you think it will make you and your family happy- so be it. Consider school tuition, time demands, and you will probably be able to only work minimal hours- Not sure who the breadwinner in the home is, but someone's got to bring home the dough. Does your wife make enough?


I suggest moving to Oklahoma as well so you can do minor eye surgery.