Res Medica; Mass exodus?

Abstract

Precise figures are not available for the number of final year medical students who sat the E.C.F.M.G. examination in February. A very conservative estimate is about 30% of the total sat it, but a more probable figure is about 50%. This represents a substantial increase in the number of students who wish to work in the U.S.A. Such an increase cannot be ignored or lightly dismissed.

Students give varying reasons for application. Many feel that they wish to train in the U.S.A. at some stage and that now is the optimum time to sit the E.C.F.M.G examinations. Some wish to ‘interne’ there, a few only to work there next summer. A few already intend to practice there. Most of the students also regard the February examinations as an incentive to start working for Finals only.