Posted by drsa from IP 152.163.100.140 on April 29, 2007 at 20:20:58:
In Reply to: Re: Neuro after FM posted by neuro_doc on April 29, 2007 at 15:50:10:
I disagree with the other contributor to this post. While it is definitely difficult, it is possible. You will need to inquire at a fairly large number of programs in order to find one that will entertain your request. Your chances would be greatest in programs based in community hospitals or programs in rural/less popular locations. You may also have to complete a few extra rotations (eg-ICU/CCU). If this is what you would prefer, the time to inquire is NOW (in fact, it is late). If you do not want FM do not waste another year (the additional year certainly won't help your quest). In addition, as a FM attending, I find it kind of amusing to consider the perception that neuro is far more "demanding" than ANY primary care specialty. While FM is often somewhat correctly labeled as a discipline of "jack of all trades and master of none", the breadth of required knowledge can be remarkable. Finally, although neuro has greater potential for significantly higher compensation, the national median salary is only about 10-15K greater than FM. Compensation is unquestionably an increasingly important consideration today (student loans can top $200 K or more). However, is that how one should primarily choose one's clinical career?