Switching to psyc and funding

[jorgenaaa]

---

Members don't see this ad.

Hi everyone,

Hope that you can help me. I am currently a Family Med PGY-1 who wants to switch to psychiatry. I realize I am late for this year's match and am going to apply this coming september for a position starting in July 2008. I have my program director's support in this decision. Obviously I would love to start psychiatry as a PGY-2 and I know that some programs offer this. However, for family reasons I would prefer to be in a certain location and am willing to start as a PGY-1 again if need be. I know I can keep an eye out for spots that may open at programs throughout the year but again, geographic location is important for personal reasons.

My question is this. Is funding going to be a problem? I read in several places that going from a residency like Family med (3 years) to psychiatry (4 years total) only gives me funding for 2 more years having completed PGY-1. I have heard that there are ways around this if programs really want to have you aboard, but honestly not sure about how this works.

On a side note, I am an american citizen with good letters of rec and solid USMLE scores. Basically If I was applying as a MS4, I would consider myself to be a very strong applicant.

Thanks for your help

 

[PsychMD2100]

Don't count yourself out yet. As I understand, there are a number of places that consider PGY-2 applications on a rolling basis; these places are sprinkled throughout the country. I'd say make some calls now. You never know. You could very well be a psych resident in July.

 

[jay dub]

And when you make your calls just make sure you ask about the funding piece. You are certainly not the first resident to switch from one specialty into another with increased length of training, but I agree about being cautious and making sure all your ducks are in a row so you don't get left high & dry... Good luck!!!👍