I am an International Medical Graduate #IMG. This week @AmerMedicalAssn recognized #IMGweek to thank the 23% of US physicians who went to medical school outside the US. But we are not all the same, our struggles and advantages are different. Follow along to learn more 1/
In general there are two main types of IMGs: US-IMGs and Non-US-IMGs. The former are US citizens who went to medical school outside the US, typically in the Caribbean such at @AU_Antigua, @StGeorgesU, @aucmed amongst others, but the could also go elsewhere such as Ireland 2/
Non-USIMGs have are doctors who are not US citizens who went to medical school outside the US. They may have trained at a medical school in their home country or have attended one of the schools the USIMGs attended, however they need visa sponsorship to practice in the US 3/
The #CaribbeanMedicalSchools tailor their curriculum to that of the US medical schools - spending the first two years in basic sciences, followed by #USMLE1 and then rotations in the several hospital sites across the US. 4/
They have to take their USMLE Step 2 CS and CK prior to their residency applications to make themselves strong candidates. Non-USIMGs typically complete their entire medical school training and take all their USMLEs prior to their residency application 5/
The @TheNRMP data shows the IMGs have lower match rates, especially in competitive specialties and typically have much higher average USMLE scores than their US counterparts in matching for the same position 6/
Once in residency, although receiving the same training as those who graduated from US medical schools, several states require IMGs to jump through more hoops and have more training before applying for licensure. The @AmerMedicalAssn and @PAMEDSociety have fought for parity 7/
After all of this, IMGs are more likely to practice in rural and underserved areas and provide primary health care services to those who need it the most. They still struggle to naturalize to the US due to #H1Bvisa restrictions. 8/
So, next time you see your friendly IMG, ask them about the hurdles they jumped in order to have the opportunity and the privilege to take care of you and your family. And thank you @AmerMedicalAssn for recognizing the work of these hardworking physicians 9/
Some of my favorite #IMGs, are @amarkelkar, @schandraVY @dr_tvt, Kevin King, Neha Ahuja, @drricardocorrea and many many more! Thank you for all you do! Tag your favorites! 10/10
