Petitioning state medical boards about USMLE requirements for MD/PhDs

[Gradient Echo]

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OK so I'm looking ahead to the future, and I noticed that there are a substantial number of states which place a time limit on how long your USMLE scores are valid.

Usually, they frame it in a time to completion from Step 1 to 3. For example, a good number of states say that you must complete step 1 to 3 in a span of 7 years or less.

I dont think that will be a problem because i dont plan on staying longer than 8 years, but still I'd like to attempt to get them to change this rule just in case. With 7 years, its cutting it pretty close.

What kind of arguments can I use in my petition? I realize that it probably wont do any good, but if I start now and keep up the pressure, perhaps by the time I graduate they will change their bylaws. I was going to write about how easing the requirements would encourage more MD/PhDs to practice in that state, which would bring in federal research dollars. I'm also going to advocate that they dont necessarily need to totally remove the time requirement, just make it a little more flexible specifically for MD/PhDs and give them an extra year or two.

Are there any other compelling arguments that I'm missing here? How can I make this look like its in their best interest?

 

[Primate]

My understanding is that this is never a problem in practice. Different states will have different paperwork requirements, but our PD/assistant directors have indicated that they've not had a problem with any grads, ever. Pretty decisive.

All states grant exemptions for CDs, so don't worry about it until you know from what state you'll need a license.

Myself, I can't wait until I'm concerned about licensure!!!

 

[Gradient Echo]

Originally posted by Primate
My understanding is that this is never a problem in practice. Different states will have different paperwork requirements, but our PD/assistant directors have indicated that they've not had a problem with any grads, ever. Pretty decisive.

All states grant exemptions for CDs, so don't worry about it until you know from what state you'll need a license.

Myself, I can't wait until I'm concerned about licensure!!!

Actually I know of at least 2 states who do NOT grant exceptions for MSTPs (I wrote them and they told me directly), so its not as cut and dry as you think.

I'm just trying to think ahead. I dont know where I want to practice yet and I dont want to limit my options.

 

[Primate]

Out of curiousity, what states? I'd like to let my PD/admins know about this (and make plans myself!).

Thanks.