Do You Need to Submit ERAS on September 1st?

By Jessica Freedman, MD, MedEdits

At this time of year, applicants anxiously try to complete their residency applications so they can submit on September 1st. Is this absolutely necessary? Not always. The majority of competitive residency programs such as dermatology, orthopaedic surgery, plastic surgery, and radiation oncology, don't start reviewing applications until after the November 1st release of the MSPE. Less competitive programs may review applications earlier.

I am no longer accepting clients this summer but I encourage prospective clients to consider hiring MedEdits editors for help with their documents. All documents submitted are reviewed by two editing professionals and revisions are completed in up to three business days. Click Here to purchase services.

Students interested in working with me for the 2011/2012 application season should retain my services in advance.

Applicants interested in interview preparation services should also contact us as soon as possible.

Residency Match Day 2009

Nearly 30,000 applicants participated in the match this year making this the most competitive match in history. MedEdits is proud that we had clients match in several of the most competitive specialties based on the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP) data including dermatology, orthopaedic surgery, radiation oncology, otolaryngology and emergency medicine.

The NRMP produced an excellent and informative podcast about the 2009 match. Click Here for the link to the podcast.

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The Competition For Residency

A client who is applying for dermatology brought to my attention an article addressing the competitiveness of the specialty. Even though the focus is derm, there are many aspects of the article that apply to all residencies.

While objective data such as grades and board scores are sometimes used to screen applications, stellar letters of reference and knowing people in the field to which you are applying also increase the chances of an interview invitation. Personal statements also help program directors determine if an applicant is a good fit.

The time to really shine and stand out from other applicants is during the interview. "During those 20 minutes, evaluators look at communication abilities, interpersonal skills, initiative and the ability to get along with others."

This article is a great read not just for derm applicants but for anyone applying to residency. Click Here to read the full article.

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Dermatology: Two Tiers of Service

A somewhat disturbing article in the New York Times today discusses the two tiers of care that exist in many dermatology practices. Patients with real medical problems such as psoriasis or possible cancerous skin lesions often spend more time waiting and less time with the doctor than patients being seen for cosmetic procedures.

"The message is that the cosmetic patient is more important than the medical patient, and that's not a good message," Dr. Praiser said.

Click Here to read the full article.

Visit: www.MedEdits.com