Submitting poor USMLE score?

[WhiteCoatSyndrome]

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If you decide to take both COMLEX and Step1 in hopes of applying to ACGME residencies, but score poorly on the USMLE, do you have to submit that score to DO residencies when applying? Also, would it look bad to DO residencies if you did well on COMLEX but poorly on USMLE?

 

[costales]

They probably care at dual programs.

 

[WhiteCoatSyndrome]

They probably care at dual programs.

Why do you say that? Because duals are more competitive?

 

[NurWollen]

Why do you say that? Because duals are more competitive?

Duals are ACGME accredited, so they it only makes sense that they would care about more about USMLE scores. That said, most dual programs aren't in terribly competitive specialties, so a low USMLE score might not hurt you much anyway.

Also, there was a thread on here a whie back that said that ERAS no longer let's you send USMLE scores to AOA programs or to dual programs if you are applying through the NMS (AOA) match. So it might not matter.

 

[Instatewaiter]

If you decide to take both COMLEX and Step1 in hopes of applying to ACGME residencies, but score poorly on the USMLE, do you have to submit that score to DO residencies when applying? Also, would it look bad to DO residencies if you did well on COMLEX but poorly on USMLE?

To AOA residencies? No you don't have to.

To ACGME programs- you are required to submit your USMLE scores.

 

[deleted564680]

You actually can't even submit USMLE scores to AOA programs although some (neurosurg, ent, ortho) may ask for it or say you can send it to their PD if you'd like to add it.

With the match merger slated for 2018, I would anticipate that reporting the USMLE will become mandatory or at minimum it will be able to be submitted to all programs. I'm not sure if the "AOA programs" that will fall under the ACGME banner now will be exempt from accepting USMLE. I actually would hedge that all programs will make it mandatory for USMLE at some point.

 

[PIacebo]

What if you have a good usmle score but poor comlex?

 

[costales]

What if you have a good usmle score but poor comlex?

Programs want to see a passing score or better because it's a graduation and licensing requirement.

 

[PIacebo]

If they are both passing scores..which scenario is better? A lot better usmle or a lot better comlex?

 

[DocVapor]

If they are both passing scores..which scenario is better? A lot better usmle or a lot better comlex?

Lot better both.

On a serious note, this is program-dependent. Personally, I would aim for the higher USMLE score, as in the future this will open more doors for you than having a good COMLEX will.