Switching into OB

[pugsly]

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Does anyone know the consequences/feasibility of switching from IM into OB. I remember someone saying it is harder to switch from a 3 yr IM to a 4 yr OB but I am not sure what exactly their point was. Can anyone comment on this. Thanks.

 

[Global Disrobal]

Be a little more specific: from what IM year are you transferring and what OB year are you trying to go into?

From what I have seen, transfers are possible and credit is given for primary care and common specialty rotations performed in IM (those that overlap with the OB/GYN curriculum), but keep in mind that (if I still remember correctly) ABOG requires a minimum number of months spent in OB and GYN as a core.

I have never heard of a 3rd year IM to OB transfer, but have seen a PGY 1 IM resident transfer midway in the year into OB and continue forth with that class.

Hope this helps. You can find more info on the ABOG website.

 

[GYN DOC]

I'm a pgy 1 IM switching into OB/GYN. One thing you should know is that there are gme funding issues when it comes to switching from 3 yr program to a 4 yr program. The 4yr program that you're switching into will not get fully funded for your last year. Nevertheless, this is not an issue for most programs. Just be aware of it. Acog allows you to receive 6 mo credit however this is program director dependent. Mine did not allow it. Although having a year is very beneficial in practice, and most attending will smile on your experience during your interviews, most ob programs have dropped their primary care rotations. Some still require a month or so of Wards, MICU and er but a lot were dropping them and getting their primary care requirements through ambulatory clinics. THE MAIN THING YOU SHOULD KNOW IS ---- that you do not have to go through the match again!! The match is only for first time graduating US seniors. You can ask the program for a prematch offer - meaning that they would take a spot out of the match for you. IMGs do it all the time. This is possible however most OB/GYN programs claim to only offer all positions through the match. During your interviews press your primary care experience as an IM grad and how you would utilize this experience during ob residency, etc. Another thing - make sure you dont use up all of your vacation time- keep 2 weeks for the end of the year. I'm currently doing orientation in one state and having to travel back to my institution to work in order to get credit for the year. Bummer!! Good luck

 

[nepal]

Did it this year. PY2 to ob/gyn. No problem. Got several interviews and secured a spot through the match. PD did not give credit for previous experience. Not an issue, however. Will not have to do med and ICU rotations.
During the PGY1 in IM ( at the end of the year ) was offered a PGY2 position, but had to decline because was not ready to move. Participated in the match this year and had a little more control in chosing a geographic area.
So, it is possible.
Keep an eye of the clearinhouse list. Don't be afraid to apply for PGY2 positions, as well

Make sure that you have a strong letter of recommendation from your current PD

 

[adrenalin]

hey nepal you switched from pgy1 im to obgyn....well i'm doing fam-med pgy1 and wud like to switch to ob...will the switch be smooth shud..i go talk to obgyn pd and let him know of my intrest and the my pd too...will i be considered that i have pgy1 family medicine residency with 2 months obgyn...dont mind doing all 4 yrs of obgyn...

what do you think..?