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IMGs should be prepared for “residency bottleneck”—more doctors graduating every year than there are residency programs.
While heartening recent statistics show that more doctors are graduating every year, there’s another side to this coin: It’s called the “residency bottleneck.” It’s an issue that can be compared to a large number of cars on a four-lane highway trying to merge into one lane—there are simply more doctors than there are residency program openings.
The challenge for IMGs seeking residency
The residency bottleneck can be an even greater challenge for international medical graduates (IMGs) for several reasons, including:
- Differences in clinical practice based on your home country’s resources, technology, and more.
- Residency program directors who may be skeptical about IMGs’ medical training and skills.
- How well an IMG demonstrates English proficiency, technological skills, and more than a passing understanding of U.S. medical culture.
While you may face these challenges and more, they’re not insurmountable. If you plan well, stay motivated, and persevere, you can do it. Here are a few things to think about as you prepare to apply for residency.
Have a strategy for applying for residency
Put a practical strategy in place that will help you keep clear goals in mind and give you confidence that you’re moving along as you check off each step on the road to residency.
Do your research on residency programs
Before you apply for residency, you may want to learn about which states and specialties are most receptive to IMG residents. You’ll also want to apply to as many programs as possible as a way to help raise your chances of getting accepted in a program. (Plus, appearing in front of different boards can help improve your interview and communication skills.)
Look for support from peers and mentors
Peer and intergenerational mentors can be a great source of guidance. Talk to those who are involved in graduate medical education about using their local connections and online resources to help you cultivate relationships with various IMG communities.
Refer to key residency resources
Look to these and other credible sources for updates and information that can help you stay on top of the application process:
- Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)
- The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
- National Resident Matching Program (NRMP)
Strengthen your language and cultural skills
Be proactive and continue to bolster your skills by seeking out opportunities such as additional language training. Even consider taking courses in American history, culture, and customs to build your comfort level with your new home.
Prepare yourself for the rigors of the USMLE
It’s important to pass all the USMLE steps and CS the first time, because high scores help secure your chances of an early match. Of course, these aren’t the only criteria—whether or not you’re an IMG—but in many programs they represent a first cut for residency program invitations.
While the road to residency for an IMG has its challenges, with the right attitude, support, and preparation, you can successfully meet those challenges in your quest for a U.S. medical career.
We’re here to help you maximize your residency application, test scores, and more—starting with our Free Medical Advising Sessions.
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