Retraining in rads after IM

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Help someone.... (trying to exercise more brevity here, edited with less ranting and unnecessary b.s.)

Does anyone have any info or suggestions on doing a second residency in radiology after IM? (or even doing a second residency, period)

I'm finishing a commitment in medicine, but really am not happy doing it, and I can't see myself staying a medicine doc. I've been reading these forums,
starting to plan my next move, and am seriously considering trying to get into a radiology residency in 2007.

I want a better lifestyle, but for me that doesn't primarily mean more income. I am a hard worker, and I'm not looking for an easy schedule. From what I've read here rads residency is tough and the hours stay long after training is over. I would just like to enjoy going to work again, enjoy reading in my field and feel like I'm actually using my talents and abilities. Plus lose some of the nastiness that direct patient care entails.

I have heard that Medicare reimbursement is such that I would only be eligible for 50% funding after 5 years total post-grad training. Does anyone know if this is true and if there is a way around this, and what effect it has on trying to retrain and getting a spot? I know people do second residencies, so this must not be an insurmountable issue. I'm just not sure how it works.

I have a good reputation in the hospital where I practice, and very fortunately, they have a radiology residency here. I'm not sure what the best approach is to setting up a talk with the chairman and/or director. I don't see enough of either of them day to day to really bring it up in an informal setting, so I'm thinking an appointment is going to be needed. Should I start now (I'd be hoping to start '07) or wait until a little closer? Would letting them know of my interest now be helpful, then trying to attend some conferences, etc, or working on research? Or maybe I should start visiting the reading room to get to know more people. But is having docs show up to go over studies really that desirable if you're the radiologist? I would think that gets old real quick, and I might become more annoying than anything. Is that the case? The program's website does mention accepting applications outside of the match for those already in a program or "in private practice"! Private practice, that's me by God, they must be talking about me!

I am hoping that others have either been in this situation or are in programs that have fellow trainees that have been through this, or at least have heard tales out there of crazy things like this happening.

I appreciate any info, suggestions, words of wisdom, etc. 🙂

 

[ny skindoc]

Start showing up at conferences and read up on radiology.Get to know the attendings in this fashion.Reviewing studies is good way of getting to know the staff and residents.It shows you are really into rads. If they like you and see you as a hard worker that will be a big plus.An appointment to meet with the chairman is a good way to get the ball rolling,see what he says.Your local hospital is by far your best bet so make every effort there.

 

[imtorads]

Thanks for the advice, ny_skindoc. I have already begun my campaign. Also got my Squire's out & reviewing rads basics. This is great stuff to read after medicine, actually interesting for a change.

This year's match is encouraging. Any other comments are greatly welcomed.
Thanks for the above and to CambieMD who has been very helpful.

I reading alot about the long hours. Have many of you been able to do any moonlighting during residency?

IMtoRads

 

[bente]

IMtoRads,
Your ideas are good ones. PM me, I may be able to give you some advice.