USMLE Question

[bailey-b]

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I recently discovered anesthesiology and will be applying in July. I am a DO student and have a question about the USMLE. I didn't take the USMLE step 1. I see in many of these posts that a lot recommend taking Step 1. I scored in the 93rd percentile on COMLEX 1 am in the top 10% of my class with all honors in clinical rotations except pedsX2 (definately not going to be a pediatrician) Lots of research (although not in anesthesia) with several publications and research while in medical school (ongoing).
My question is whether to take USMLE step 2? I don't plan going back and taking step 1. For me it is either going to be take step 2 or go on my COMLEX scores alone. Does anyone have any recommendations?

 

[abords]

Unfortunately, you cannot take step 2 without taking step 1

 

[Thoinga Thoing]

Actually, from what I remember, you can take any of the 3 steps in ANY order, but in order to be fully licensed, you must have passed all 3 within a 5-7 year time span.

So in response to the OP, it shouldn't be a problem for you to register and take just Step 2.

 

[bailey-b]

Thoinga is correct. You can take the USMLE in any order without having to complete all three. My license requires me to to complete all three levels of the COMLEX. To the licensing boards a DO student taking the USMLE means nothing.
So what do you guys recommend. Should I take the USMLE step 2 ???

 

[Arch Guillotti]

To the licensing boards a DO student taking the USMLE means nothing. ???

I am not sure that I believe this statement. I seem to recall reading that if a state has a single medical licensing board, then all 3 steps of either exam should suffice. Of interest to me since I have taken both exams x 2. Anyone else have any info on this?

 

[UNEOSTEO]

Arch is correct...a DO can be licensed if they took all three steps of either the USMLE or COMLEX....ie all 3 steps of comlex OR all 3 steps of USMLE.

 

[scarne1]

Isn't a DO required to take all three levels of COMLEX? If that is the case then the USMLE is just an extra test (it is not required).

 

[bailey-b]

Does anyoneone have an opinion on whether to take step 2. I'm sure out of the 330 people who have viewed the post someone must have an opinion.

 

[thegasman]

Search this board for other info on the topic. I would recommend it. USMLE will help level the playing field for you with the MD applicants.