Question about USMLE for DO physiatrist's

[predodoc]

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I took USMLE and COMLEX for step 1 and did well on both. Now, step 2 is coming up and I want to know if I should take USMLE 2. I really dont want to take it, but I would if programs really want it. So for the DO's out there that applied to allopathic residencies, do the PMR programs really want both tests? Thanks

 

[catullus39]

I cant speak for all programs but generally they dont care. COMLEX is enough. I didnt take a single level of USMLE and interviewed at ACGME programs exculsively. However, I will say its best to just call the programs you are interested in to be sure its not an issue.

 

[bellepmr]

I say take it. I contacted the individual programs I was interested in and asked them. There is no true way to compare a USMLE to a COMLEX score. There are many random equations out there to do this but trust me they want to see the hard numbers in front of them. I mean in the end if you study for the USMLE you are in fact studying for the COMLEX. Why give a program a reason to put your file in the wrong stack?

 

[Fro]

It depends on what your plans are. Do you want to go all the way to Step 3? Or were you just looking to shine on Step 1 for residency applications? By the time Step 2 scores are in it may be too late to consider in your ranking, so take it soon and do well on it if you want that to be part of your app.
We don't convert scores (COMLEX to USMLE) but we compare all DO COMLEX scores to get an idea who is competitive. And there are DO Residents & faculty that know what they mean.

 

[predodoc]

thanks for the advice everyone. I dont think I am going to take it. I was only going to take it to shine for residency. Its another $450+ and extra stress. Plus I had someone PM me (with an awesome match) and told me not to. So unless the program that I want makes some kind of deal with me about it, Its a no go on the usmle.

 

[Taus]

I took USMLE and COMLEX for step 1 and did well on both. Now, step 2 is coming up and I want to know if I should take USMLE 2. I really dont want to take it, but I would if programs really want it. So for the DO's out there that applied to allopathic residencies, do the PMR programs really want both tests? Thanks

I've decided against taking step 2 of the usmle for several reasons:

-I did well on step 1
-only took step 1 for residency applications....my license will be though comlex
-paying another $500 sucks
-DO's have consistently matched in the overwhelming majority of PM&R programs
-no desire to torture myself w/ another 8 hour test for a questionable/marginal benefit

I'm sure I can think of more, but you get the idea...

Good luck w/ the application process

 

[Ligament]

Absolutely no reason to do the USMLE. Your license is via the COMLEX. That is all that matters. ALL the good to great PM&R programs are very DO friendly except Beaumont Hospital in Michigan, and they are not in the "great" category anyway.