Why move to the US?

Whilst it’s important to get advice from people about whether going to the US is for you or not, always remember that it’s a personal choice and no one can make the decision for you better than yourself. Here, we run through the main pros and cons to help with that all important decision.

The Pros

Lots of people are drawn to either a fellowship or permanent work in the US for a number of reasons:

1.More cutting-edge training (location dependent)

2.Better compensation on average

3.Research opportunities (location dependent)

4.Shorter time to complete residency in most specialties

5.Greater career flexibility after training

6.Family/other personal reasons

The Cons 

There are also drawbacks:

1. Longer working hours (at least during training)

2.Malpractice and litigation

3.Dealing with insurance companies/private healthcare structure

4.Significantly more competitive for IMGs to get into residency programs

5.Visa issues run the risk of spoiling long-term plans

6.Leaving family/other personal reasons

These are just a few points, but there are many others. Try and find a few people who have already done this to get more advice from (I am happy to answer any questions), but then most importantly, take some time to think for yourself whether you really want to do it. The USMLE exams are a serious academic and financial commitment. USMLE Step 1 is likely to be one of the most content-heavy exams you will sit.