Shadowing a Dr.

[PharmDr.]

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I am real close to a primary care physician who is an MD, can I shadow him and use him as a doctor I shadowed when I apply even though he is not a DO? I would probally try to shadow a DO in a hospital anyways.

 

[DrMom]

Depends on the schools you're applying to. Some require a DO letter and really like to see that you've spent time with a DO. Others aren't so particular. You might make a call to some of the admissions offices and see what they say.

I shadowed both DOs and MDs, and had letters from both. My school does require a DO letter, but they'll take additional letters from MDs. I don't know what their stance is on the shadowing, but many people ask the Drs they shadow to write them letters, so that is why I've gone off on that particular tangent. 🙂

 

[stoic]

I am real close to a primary care physician who is an MD, can I shadow him and use him as a doctor I shadowed when I apply even though he is not a DO? I would probally try to shadow a DO in a hospital anyways.

Since the all powerful Dr.Mom went for a stroll down tangent lane with her response, I think I will too.

I also shadowed DO's and MD's. I think that one of the most important things I learned was that the qualities I admired in the physicians, whether DO or MD, were often the same qualites that DO schools specifically look for and try to devolop in students. As such, I've noticed these qualities more often in DO, but many many MD's also possess and use them. SOOOO... my point is that while I think you should definately try to get a DO letter, don't be afraid to talk about experiences with MD's during DO interviews or in your personal statement just because they're not DO's.

I hope that makes sense.
Good luck!

Dave

 

[taylor92107]

Its great you will have the chance to shadow a MD, but I would recommend you try to shadow a DO and get it on your application. I know that in the secondaries some school specifically ask if you have taken the time to shadow a DO. Shadowing a DO shows them you have taken interest in learning more about the DO profession. Good luck!

 

[FowlersGap]

i shadowed both in the same practice; and it showed me the subtle differences and styles between the two

i brought this up in my interviews