Peds LOR

[kobebeefmd]

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I'm a US-IMG, graduated in April 2015. Going to apply pediatrics.

My program coordinator for core rotations told me that my pediatric LOR was "very, very" brief, nothing bad though. The LOR was written 1 and a half years ago -- given the personality of the attending, I don't think she will change it -- but I will reach out to her again. I was told my IM, Anesthesia, Surgery, pulmonology, family letters were strong. I am a research intern at a children's hospital, the director of research will write me a LOR he said.

Should I include the pediatric LOR even though I have stronger ones in other fields? Also, will a clinical research letter (he's a MD/PhD) from the director carry any weight? Thanks.

 

[Bean_Bunny]

It helps/is almost required to have a clinical letter from a pediatrician. It shows that you want to go into the field, that you have experienced it, and that you have done well during your clinical time. If your letter from peds isn't great, maybe try to get some clinical time with some else who can write you a letter. Perhaps asking the director if she/he will allow you to shadow them in a clinical setting so they can speak of your research ability and clinical ability.

 

[GoSpursGo]

I agree with the above, it's pretty much necessary to have an LOR from a pediatrician, and honestly regardless of the content you probably want something more recent than 1.5 years ago. No matter how strong you think the other letters are, I think you need to find a pediatrician who can speak more currently to your clinical ability.

That said, I do think the research director letter will carry some weight and should be included.