Value of a MD/PhD in Biomechanics

[kedrin]

A few different questions.....

Assume average ortho applicant #s + PhD in biomechanics, What are the chances of landing a mid tier or high tier residencies as compared to no PhD?

Can the PhD make up for any inadequacies in other areas?

Does having a PhD add much value later in ones career?

How do you get into the implant design field as an orthopod?

Do you think residencies will take into account the fact that most people you will be applying with took the USMLE several years after you did? (what is the effect of the upward trend of USMLE scores on MD/PhD?)

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[skiz knot]

A few different questions.....

Assume average ortho applicant #s + PhD in biomechanics, What are the chances of landing a mid tier or high tier residencies as compared to no PhD?

Average for mid tier, below average for high tier. Don't worry about tier. "mid-tier" residencies match people into top-tier fellowships all the time.

Can the PhD make up for any inadequacies in other areas?

Depends on how glaring the other inadequacies are. Having a PhD is definitely a bonus, but if you scored 190 on step 1, it probably doesn't matter. You'll never make it past the screening process.

Does having a PhD add much value later in ones career?

Depends on what your career goals are, but probably not.

How do you get into the implant design field as an orthopod?

Most implant designers are big name/high volume specialists. They are the ones that can create/evolve an implant design and "get the word out" to other surgeons.

Do you think residencies will take into account the fact that most people you will be applying with took the USMLE several years after you did? (what is the effect of the upward trend of USMLE scores on MD/PhD?)

I do not think they will put that much thought into it. The trend seems to be to add just a few points each year. Usually not a make or break change.

You should talk to your med school advisor to see what they think your chances are.

 

[PROBOSS]

I am not in the medical field... Yet. But I have done extensive research. I think maybe it might be worth more if you get hired as an academic because they generally have more opportunity for research?