Embarking on the journey from physician assistant (PA) to medical doctor (MD) is a significant career move that requires careful planning and preparation. Similar to traditional medical school applicants, the process typically begins around two years prior to your intended enrollment date. For physician assistants considering this transition, understanding the initial crucial steps is paramount to a successful application.
One of the first key actions involves securing letters of recommendation for medical school. Most medical schools mandate recommendation letters, often specifically from professors. This can present a unique challenge for practicing PAs who may have been out of academia for several years. Therefore, initiating the process of identifying and contacting potential recommenders early is essential. Networking within your professional circle and reaching out to past professors who remember your academic capabilities should be prioritized.
Another critical aspect of preparing for Physician Assistant To Doctor programs is the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test). Unlike PA programs, which generally do not require the MCAT, excelling in this exam is a fundamental requirement for medical school admissions. Therefore, MCAT preparation becomes a central focus for PAs transitioning to MD programs.
While your background as a physician assistant provides a strong foundation in medicine, a thorough review of basic sciences is necessary for the MCAT. The MCAT biology, chemistry, and psychology sections cover a broad range of topics. The years elapsed since your undergraduate studies mean revisiting and reinforcing these foundational concepts is crucial. Leveraging study resources and dedicating sufficient time for review will be key to success in these knowledge-based sections.
Furthermore, the MCAT includes the challenging Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) section. This section assesses reading comprehension and analytical abilities, skills distinct from medical knowledge. Mastering the CARS section requires a dedicated approach involving consistent active reading, exposure to complex texts, and vocabulary enhancement. Utilizing practice materials provided by the AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges) is highly recommended, as these materials closely mirror the actual exam’s style and difficulty.
Ideally, aim to complete the MCAT well in advance of application deadlines, allowing time for a retake if necessary. It’s more beneficial to postpone the test until you are adequately prepared to achieve a competitive score. A good benchmark is to consistently score in the 90th percentile on practice MCAT exams before taking the official test. While a small number of medical schools may not require the MCAT, for the majority of physician assistant to doctor pathways, it remains a significant component of the application.
