Pharmacist interested in DO, question about relocation

[flyers0806]

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Hello,

I am a pharmacist, just turned 30 years old. I truly do not see myself doing this career for 30 more years and have always been interested in DO school. Here is my question and issue I'm struggling with. I currently have a likely forever house, pharmacist husband with his ideal job here. I am interested in applying to DO school close to here, and my stats are very competitive.

This is my question- I live near a city with many residency opportunities. Is it possible to apply for residency if I am not very relocatable? I can't see moving my husband, leaving my house and family, however there are opportunities here. Is this asking too much and something I should forget about.

Thanks for any input.

 

[Mike Bagwell]

Yeah, it's asking too much. Stick to pharmacy.

I have never heard of anyone who wants to go to medical school who then says they do not want to relocate for residency if they need to. Medicine is a commitment for life and your comment suggests that is not something you want to commit to.

 

[Meridian32]

Yes, it's possible. I know many people who have done it, including myself in internal medicine. Whether it's a good idea depends on the specialty (e.g., it may be reasonable for internal medicine, which is a less competitive specialty with more residency programs and more slots per program, but not for neurosurgery, which is very competitive, has few programs and there are 2-3 slots per program) and the number of residency programs in the area you're in.

 

[atomi]

It’s possible but you may find yourself unmatched with a $500k+ opportunity cost (which could be two million or more at retirement) for going to med school not to mention the lost time and strain on your relationships.

Medical training cost me two long term relationships.

 

[BC_89]

It’s possible but you may find yourself unmatched with a $500k+ opportunity cost (which could be two million or more at retirement) for going to med school not to mention the lost time and strain on your relationships.

Medical training cost me two long term relationships.

This actually is one of many factors that helped me on my 2nd career change as a nontrad: opportunity cost coupled with my own willingness to relocate with wife and kids (one of which starting school).

That being said, I hold respect for nontrads going to med school and know for those who make it have a good rewarding career. That said, my hobbies of the outdoors and sharing those moments with my own kids with a solid investment plan has placed me on my shorter goals with my next career choice.

Just something to think about