Should I take USMLE too?

[soccerchicoc]

I am a first year DO student who is really intrested in orthopedic surgery. I am on HPSP scholarship. I would like to know everyone's opinon and advice on whether I should take just the COMLEX or should I take the USMLE as well?

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[sethco]

I am a first year DO student who is really intrested in orthopedic surgery. I am on HPSP scholarship. I would like to know everyone's opinon and advice on whether I should take just the COMLEX or should I take the USMLE as well?

Yes, especially if you are thinking that you might be applying to MD programs. When I was at PCOM, the school paid for the COMLEX and I got the military to reimburse me for the USMLE. The military will reimburse one test but not both, but even if you have to pay for one, it is money well spent.

With this in mind, it is really hard for DO students to match in MD Ortho programs. However, taking the USMLE and doing well will give you more options. If you change your mind and want to EMed, Anesth, Rads, Optho, etc and choose to apply to MD programs, most wont even look at you without the USMLE.

Just my experience and my 2 cents

 

[AF M4]

Yes, especially if you are thinking that you might be applying to MD programs. When I was at PCOM, the school paid for the COMLEX and I got the military to reimburse me for the USMLE. The military will reimburse one test but not both, but even if you have to pay for one, it is money well spent.

With this in mind, it is really hard for DO students to match in MD Ortho programs. However, taking the USMLE and doing well will give you more options. If you change your mind and want to EMed, Anesth, Rads, Optho, etc and choose to apply to MD programs, most wont even look at you without the USMLE.

Just my experience and my 2 cents

Agree with above. If you're interested in competitive MD residencies, google around for a couple of their web sites and look at the application process page. On pretty much every one there's a line saying that a USMLE score is required in the application, and competitive residencies rarely bend their rules for applicants.

 

[soccerchicoc]

Even if I plan on applying to only military residencies?

 

[NavyFP]

Even if I plan on applying to only military residencies?

If you are applying for military programs only, no, you do not need USMLE. Military PDs can translate from COMLEX to USMLE. If there is any possibility you will look at a deferment, it would not be a bad thing.

 

[sethco]

Even if I plan on applying to only military residencies?

Doing a military residency is anything but a sure thing, especially if you are going for a competitive residency.You would be surprised how many AF and Navy peeps just do a 3/4 year GMO tour and then get out to do a civilian residency. At the very least, taking the USMLE gives you more options. Ultimately, the choice is up to you (and it seems like you are trying to avoid taking it, which is fine). However, looking back, it was one of the best decisions I made during med school. Take it for what it is worth.