doc1355
Forum Senior
Topics: 28
Posts: 91
|
Hi,
I am an IMG currently in Texas (Permanent Resident). I have passed my USMLE step 1 and my score on that exam is 84/206. I'm currently preparing for step 2 and have just started my research on different programs.
My question is, does it really worth it to go through all the application problems to get the PTAL (used to be known as California Letter)? I mean, are there enough programs in California which I may have a chance to get a residency? Because as you know there are too many applications and there are fees and other issues with this letter. Does my USMLE 1 score satisfies California program directors to give me an interview (I know they also need the step two)?
The reason that I'm asking is that I have a very low budget and I can't spend on something that has no or may be very low chance for me. I have already paid enough to Kaplan and I still have to pay for the Step 2 CS and Match and other stuff.
Is there any other charges other than the initial $505?
Any suggestion is helpful.
Thank you.
___________________
Match is not about how hard you can work or what is your score. It is all about $$$ and Connections. Instead of doing research find somebody who knows somebody. You will be matched.
|
| Lorena
Forum Elite
Topics: 9
Posts: 237
|
The medical board of california doesnt ask for special scores, they just want you to have cleared step 1 and step 2.
There are a lot of programs in California - you can check the number of programs by specialty in FREIDA.
http://www.ama-assn.org/vapp/freida/srch/
Read the applicant information carefully on the medical board of California official website.
http://www.medbd.ca.gov/
Besides paying the fees and passing the exams, you must have a certain number of clinical hours. Make sure you know about all the requirements and then consider if it is worth it.
Good luck
|
| alhambramd
Forum Senior
Topics: 8
Posts: 128
|
Hi doc1355!
I'm currently in California, and participating in Match 2006. I am also a permanent resident, ECFMG certified with USMLE scores 83/85/Passed. From what I've experienced so far, applying to only 21 programs in the vicinity of where my husband and I live, my application has been received very warmly by the FM programs to which I have applied. So I guess you can say that as far as FM programs go, there are a lot of programs that you could get into for residency, especially those based in community hospitals. Just make sure you put together a very strong application, and they will notice 
I think the PTAL was a big hassle, too many requirements.. but I wanted to stay in CA, so I had no other choice. After I completed all the requirements, I did receive the PTAL promptly. Like Loerna stated, they are a big stickler for clerkship hours, specially in Psychiatry, Community Medicine, and Electives... If you are determined to go to CA, either for residency or for establishing a practice AFTER residency, then by all means, get the PTAL (or a license in the case of establishing a practice AFTER the residency). It does take a long while to get one, and you should start as early as now for Match 2007. But if you are applying to programs in other states and feel that you have better chances getting there, then maybe the PTAL may just be a waste of time and money. It is undeniable that IMGs have better chances in the East Coast, and lesser requirements to contend with.
I hope everything works out for you. I have more extensive posts on this topic elsewhere in this forum, feel free to look them up. If you have time, go through this thread from this forum on PTAL/CA letter http://www.prep4usmle.com/forum/thread/24647
Good luck!
___________________
Today is the first day of the rest of your life...
|
| doc1355
Forum Senior
Topics: 28
Posts: 91
|
Thank you Lorena,
Thank you alhambramd.
Both of you were of great help.
Regarding the hours, I think I will be OK, since I have all the required hours (I THINK! )
With what you said, I think I will go ahead an apply for it. But first I have another question. I don't to apply for Family medicine. I'm just going to apply for IM and I wan't to continue to Cardiology.
Do you think there are good chances for IM in California for an FMG?
Thanks again.
___________________
Match is not about how hard you can work or what is your score. It is all about $$$ and Connections. Instead of doing research find somebody who knows somebody. You will be matched.
|
| alhambramd
Forum Senior
Topics: 8
Posts: 128
|
Sure doc1355! The generalist specialties like FM, IM, and Peds are usually not as competitive as others.
I did not get that many interview invitations to IM programs, so I dont really have an idea  But dont lose heart, most of the programs I applied to are University programs, and hence more competitive. Also one thing to put into consideration is that SF is a hotspot for AMGs because of the location-- there are just too many applicants here-- so again, more competition. But definitely you have to give CA a shot You just have to choose your programs wisely... I think Southern CA has more programs, just look it up in FREIDA.
Good luck!
___________________
Today is the first day of the rest of your life...
|
| Lorena
Forum Elite
Topics: 9
Posts: 237
|
What i have realized is that it is absolutely worth it if you dont have a visa issue, which is your case. I agree with alhambramd...go for it! 
I got 5 interviews for IM, and 5 for FM... my PTAL and ECFMG certificate were in process at the time i got the invitations...thanks God I have both now ready for the match. I am a GC holder, graduated 2003, step 1 87, step 2 ck 87 , CS passed.
good luck
|
|
| |
| | | | | | |
