Doctors Sick at Work

Here's a quick New York Times piece on healthcare providers who come to work sick. I have to say that I cannot think of one physician-friend I know who has not come to work ill at some point. Unfortunately, the system needs to change drastically, especially for residents, to keep doctors away from their responsibilities when ill.

Are you a Residency Candidate Applying in More than One Specialty?

If you are considering applying in more than one field, you have a tough road ahead of you, and you should strategize accordingly. Remember that, although your ERAS activities cannot be individualized to different residency programs, your personal statement and letters of recommendation can. Demonstrating commitment to each field through your essay and letters will be a challenge, so take time to write thoughtfully, and make sure you speak candidly to your faculty recommenders.

 

Above all: Ensure that you assign the correct specialty-specific documents to the correct programs!

How Fast Do You Need to Submit Your Secondaries?

I've recently had several questions about what the turn around should be for secondary essays. Aiming for submission within 3 weeks of receipt assures you submit your essays quickly while maintaining high quality work. The secondary process can be a challenge - with a slew of applications coming in simultaneously. Pace yourself and try to use (thoughtful) variations of the same essays as much as possible.

Letters of Recommendation

It's time to start securing your residency letters of recommendation (LOR) if you haven't already. Remember that your letters have a big impact on your application, and even a mediocre letter can bomb your candidacy.

Don’t be afraid to ask a potential letter-writer if she will write you "a very strong" LOR. It may seem awkward at the time you ask but getting a wimpy letter will be much thornier. If the faculty member says no, hesitates, or tells you in May that she has to plan her Thanksgiving get-together, politely thank her and move on. Although disappointing, acknowledge that she has done you a huge favor. You now have the advantage of substituting a stronger LOR written by someone who likes your clinical work.