Using FCVS early and then re-using it for different states.

[Faebinder]

I was hoping to hear from the more experienced folks out there like WS 😀 (BTW, thanks for the New Jersey License answers).

Some brief questions:

1) Can you actually send FCVS application material early? I.E. I wont be eligible for a license for lets say NJ till 1.5 years from now... can you actually hope to start the FCVS process early so that you can initiate it right on time when eligible? I'm asking this cause I keep hearing stories about FCVS incompetence and delays.

2) Is there an extra hidden cost for FCVS? Maintaince fee?

3) Is FCVS a dying trend or an increasing trend?

4) Ninjas or Pirates?

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[Blade28]

(1) Not sure if this is possible - I didn't apply until I had my state medical license.
(2) Besides their initial cost? No.
(3) Dying trend, IMHO.
(4) Ninjas!

 

[delicatefade]

You can do FCVS early.

My FCVS packet is complete and I cannot apply for state licensure until I've completed one year of GME which will be on June 30, 2009. They have archived my file and when it's July next year I can contact them and start the application for a full medical license.

I haven't encountered any hidden costs. I paid once for Step I and II to be reported to them and once I passed Step III, they got that report without any additional cost on my part.

I was under the impression that the use of FCVS is increasing. In fact, it looks like some states REQUIRE it. And it seems like it would certainly make life easier in the future should you apply for licensure in another state. FCVS will already have your entire packet.

 

[Winged Scapula]

I was hoping to hear from the more experienced folks out there like WS 😀 (BTW, thanks for the New Jersey License answers).

Some brief questions:

1) Can you actually send FCVS application material early? I.E. I wont be eligible for a license for lets say NJ till 1.5 years from now... can you actually hope to start the FCVS process early so that you can initiate it right on time when eligible? I'm asking this cause I keep hearing stories about FCVS incompetence and delays.

When you apply to FCVS you have to designate a state to send your profile to. If you wish to add another at a later date, you can, and I believe it costs $50. So yes, you can have FCVS work on your profile but if you have not finished your residency, your profile will not include this information unless you have them hold it until you are done.

My question to you: why are you using FCVS?

2) Is there an extra hidden cost for FCVS? Maintaince fee?

No maintenance fee as far as I'm aware of.

3) Is FCVS a dying trend or an increasing trend?

I agree with Blade...I think its dying. Although it is true that some states require it many do not, some don't accept it and even those that do accept it (ie, Arizona)still require you to submit applications for licenses and supporting documentation. Many hospitals do not accept it for privileging.

Only 12 states require it, Nebraska and Arkansas do not accept it, and the rest will accept it but there is no evidence that it speeds up your application process.

Disclosure: I am biased against them. It has been a year since my profile was complete and they still have not corrected the error that states I completed a fellowship in Vascular Surgery. Long story, but completely an error on their part. Now they are not returning my phone calls or emails asking where my corrected profile is.

4) Ninjas or Pirates?

 

[Faebinder]

My question to you: why are you using FCVS?

Well the idea that you can apply to hospital privileges through them is alright. Also I anticipate needing a license in NJ and MD then moving to a different state for fellowship then a fourth state when taking a job.. maybe even a fifth in the future afterwards.

So would it minimize the pain or increase it that's the thought.