Reviewed by:
Akhil Katakam
Third-Year Medical Student, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Reviewed: 4/29/24
If you’re researching medical residencies, you might wonder which ones are the quickest to complete. We will cover the shortest residencies and what each of them entails.
Imagine committing over a decade of your life to studying medicine, only to find out that you have to spend several more years in residency before you can finally practice as a fully-fledged doctor. It's quite a prospect, isn't it? But what if we told you that there's a way to fast-track your medical career without compromising on the quality of your training?
In this article, we'll take you through the ten shortest medical residencies available in the country. We'll explore what makes these programs special, what you can expect during your training, and how they can help you achieve your goals faster than you ever thought possible.
Whether you're a medical student just starting, or a seasoned healthcare professional looking for a change, this article is your ultimate guide to the shortest path to becoming a doctor.
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Shortest Time To Become A Doctor In the US
Becoming a doctor typically requires a minimum of eight years of education. However, certain accelerated MD programs or combined bachelor's and MD programs can shorten this timeline to six to seven years. A short residency program can allow you to start practicing in as little as 3 years post-graduation.
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Shortest Time To Become A Doctor In the US
Becoming a doctor typically takes a minimum of 8 years, but certain accelerated programs can reduce this to 6 years. After graduating, completing a short residency program allows you to start practicing medicine in as little as 3 additional years.
10 Shortest Residencies
Here is a table of ten of the shortest residencies in the US.
| Specialty | Length | Overview |
|---|---|---|
| Internal Medicine | 3 years | Focuses on acute and complex illnesses of the body’s major organ systems |
| Medical Genetics and Genomics | 3 years | Involves the diagnosis and treatment of genetic diseases. |
| Community Medicine | 3 years | Concentrates on public health, preventative medicine, and occupational medicine. |
| Pediatrics | 3 years | Specializes in treating infants, children, and adolescents' physical, mental, and social health |
| Family Medicine | 3 years | Its target is general health care for people of all ages. |
| Dermatology | 3 years | Involves the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses concerning the integumentary system. |
| Emergency Medicine | 3-4 years | Centers in a fast-paced and intense environment where immediate treatment is crucial. |
| Pathology | 3-4 years | Puts a spotlight on both clinical work and research on the nature and causes of diseases. |
| Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation | 3-4 years | Focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular and cardiopulmonary disabilities. |
| Neurology | 3-4 years | Specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases involving the central nervous system. |
Source: Inspira Advantage
Below, we’ll review each of the shortest medical residencies and what they entail.
Internal Medicine
Internal medicine residency programs are designed to train doctors to become specialists in diagnosing and treating adult illnesses. The residency typically lasts three years and involves both inpatient and outpatient care.
During this period, residents work under the supervision of experienced attending physicians and learn to manage various medical conditions, from acute illnesses to chronic diseases.
In addition to clinical training, internal medicine residents receive didactic education in cardiology, gastroenterology, endocrinology, and nephrology. They also have opportunities to participate in research and quality improvement projects.
Upon completion of the residency program, these residents may pursue a subspecialty fellowship, such as cardiology, gastroenterology, or infectious disease, or they may choose to practice general internal medicine.
Medical Genetics and Genomics
This residency program is for physicians interested in genetics and genomics. The program is typically three years long and prepares residents to diagnose and manage genetic disorders.
During their training, residents learn about genetic diseases' molecular, biochemical, and cellular basis and how to diagnose and manage these conditions.
Community Medicine
Community or preventive medicine residency programs are designed to provide specialized training in public health, epidemiology, and healthcare systems management.
These programs prepare medical professionals to identify and address public health issues at a population level rather than focusing solely on individual patient care.
Residents can work with local health departments, community organizations, and other public health agencies to gain hands-on experience developing and implementing public health programs and policies.
Pediatrics
A pediatrics residency program prepares physicians to specialize in caring for infants, children, and adolescents. The program typically lasts three years and consists of clinical and didactic components.
During the program, residents gain experience in various clinical settings, including inpatient and outpatient care, emergency medicine, and subspecialty rotations.
Family Medicine
This residency trains physicians to provide comprehensive primary care services to patients of all ages and genders, including infants, children, adults, and seniors. The program typically lasts three years and consists of clinical and didactic components.
During the program, residents gain experience in various clinical settings, including inpatient and outpatient care, emergency medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and subspecialty rotations.
Dermatology
This is a specialized training program that prepares physicians to become dermatologists, who are experts in diagnosing, treating, and managing skin, hair, and nail diseases.
Dermatology residents receive extensive training in various dermatological conditions during the residency program. They are also taught dermatological procedures, such as biopsies, excisions, and laser treatments.
The program includes both clinical rotations and didactic education, with residents working closely with attending dermatologists to gain hands-on experience in patient care.
Emergency Medicine
Emergency medicine residencies prepare physicians to diagnose and manage various medical conditions in high-pressure emergency department settings.
This residency aims to develop the knowledge, skills, and clinical judgment needed to provide high-quality emergency care to patients of all ages.
Emergency medicine residencies typically last three to four years and consist of both didactic and clinical components. During the program, residents receive comprehensive training in various areas of emergency medicine, including trauma care, critical care, and toxicology.
Pathology
Pathology residents are taught to diagnose, manage, and treat diseases by studying the causes and effects of diseases at the cellular and molecular levels. Pathology is divided into different sub-specialties, including anatomical pathology, clinical pathology, and forensic pathology.
During this program, residents typically spend several years gaining clinical experience in different areas of pathology, such as autopsy pathology, surgical pathology, and microbiology. They also receive training in laboratory management and research.
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
The field of physical medicine specializes in diagnosing and treating disabilities related to neuromuscular and cardiopulmonary systems, with an emphasis on rehabilitation.
Although physical medicine primarily addresses physical health issues, it also aims to enhance the patient's social and psychological well-being. The core of this specialty lies in therapeutic exercise, rehabilitation practices, and the utilization of assistive devices such as orthotics and prosthetics.
Neurology
This residency program is an essential medical training pathway specifically designed for aspiring neurologists. The program typically lasts three to four years and focuses on diagnosing and treating disorders related to the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
During neurology residencies, trainees will gain clinical experience in various settings, including outpatient clinics, inpatient units, and emergency departments. They will also participate in didactic training sessions.
Throughout the program, residents will be expected to develop and demonstrate competence in a range of neurology-specific skills, including patient history-taking, physical examination, diagnostic testing, and treatment planning. They must also develop communication, teamwork, and professionalism skills.
What Can You Expect at Residency?
Residencies have a minimum number of hours that must be spent with patients each week, along with additional educational requirements. While the average resident works 60-80 hours per week, there are different schedules available to suit individual needs.
If you’re worried about your schedule as a resident, some programs permit residents to work overnight or on weekends, providing more rest time during the week.
Expect a dynamic learning environment, exposure to diverse cases, and integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application to prepare for a successful career.
If you need help and professional residency support, we've got you covered! Our service offers interview prep and help with letters of intent, among other things. If this interests you, we offer a free consultation and are dedicated to helping you get into your chosen residency.
How Much Are Medical Residency Salaries?
Medical residency salaries vary depending on several factors, including specialty, year of residency, and location. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the average first-year resident physician salary in 2023 was $62,722. This figure can range from about $55,000 to $65,000.
As residents progress through their training, salaries typically increase each year. Here's the AAMC Survey of Resident/Fellow Stipends and Benefits by residency year:
- PGY-1: $62,722
- PGY-2: $65,306
- PGY-3: $67,763
- PGY-4: $71,235
- PGY-5: $74,837
- PGY-6: $76,947
- PGY-7: $81,067
- PGY-8: $85,380
It's important to note that these are average figures and can vary significantly by specialty. Some of the highest-paying specialties for residents include:
- Medical Genetics: $70,577
- Allergy & Immunology: $69,658
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine: $69,407
- Pediatric Endocrinology: $68,990
On the other hand, some of the lower-paying specialties for residents include:
- Family Medicine: $57,774
- Pediatrics: $58,921
- Preventive Medicine: $59,369
- Internal Medicine: $59,971
Location also plays a role in resident salaries. Residents in high-cost-of-living areas, such as New York City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, often receive higher salaries to account for the increased expenses.
While medical residency salaries may seem low considering the long hours and high level of responsibility, it's important to remember that residency is a temporary training period. Once physicians complete their residency and become fully licensed, salaries increase substantially, with the average physician earning $208,000 or more per year.
Tips on How to Choose a Residency Program
Choosing a residency program is one of the most important decisions for a medical student. It can shape your future career and impact your personal life. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a residency program:
1. Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This accreditation ensures the program meets strict educational standards.
2. Program Size and Setting: Consider whether you prefer a large or small program and whether you want to be in an urban, suburban, or rural setting. Larger programs often offer more diversity in patient populations and research opportunities, while smaller programs may provide more personalized attention.
3. Faculty and Curriculum: Research the program's faculty and curriculum. Look for experienced, supportive faculty who are invested in resident education. Evaluate the curriculum to ensure it aligns with your learning style and career goals.
4. Clinical Experience: Assess the quality and variety of clinical experiences offered. Look for programs with diverse patient populations and a balance between inpatient and outpatient care.
5. Research Opportunities: If research is important to you, look for programs with strong research infrastructure and faculty mentorship. Evaluate the program's research output and resident participation in scholarly activities.
6. Fellowship Placement: If you're interested in a particular subspecialty, investigate the program's fellowship placement rates. A strong track record of placing residents into competitive fellowships can be a good indicator of program quality.
7. Work-Life Balance: Residency is challenging, so it's important to choose a program that promotes resident wellness. Look for programs with reasonable duty hours, supportive services, and a positive culture.
8. Geographic Location: Consider the location of the program. Do you want to be close to family? Do you prefer a certain climate or region of the country? Keep in mind that you'll be spending several years in this location.
9. Gut Feeling: Finally, trust your instincts. After interviewing with a program, reflect on how you felt about the people, the place, and the overall atmosphere. A good fit is crucial for a successful residency experience.
Remember, there's no perfect program, but there are programs that perfectly fit you. Prioritize your needs and values, do your research, and don't hesitate to reach out to residents and faculty for insider perspectives.
FAQs: Shortest Residencies
If you still have questions about the shortest residencies, check out these frequently asked questions.
1. Which Residency Is the Shortest?
The shortest residencies are:
- Family Medicine (3 years)
- Internal Medicine (3 years)
- Emergency Medicine (3-4 years)
- Pediatrics (3 years)
These residencies typically have a shorter duration compared to other specialties.
2. Which Is the Easiest Residency?
The easiest to get into are Family, Psychiatry, and Pediatrics. However, the medical field is challenging regardless of specialty.
3. What Type of Doctor Takes the Shortest Time to Become?
Doctors with the shortest training times include:
- Family Physicians
- Osteopathic Physicians (DOs)
- Emergency Medicine Physicians
These doctors typically have shorter residencies, allowing them to complete their training in a relatively shorter time compared to other specialties.
4. Which Residency Is the Least Stressful?
While stress levels can vary depending on factors like the program and individual, some medical specialties are generally considered less stressful:
- Dermatology
- Pathology
These specialties often have less demanding schedules and lower patient volumes compared to other residencies.
5. How Long Does It Take To Become A Doctor?
Becoming a doctor typically involves three major steps:
- Four-year bachelor's degree
- Four-year MD or DO program
- Three to seven-year residency
In total, it can take 11-15 years to become a doctor. However, some accelerated programs may shorten this timeline by a year or two.
Final Thoughts
The medical field offers a variety of residency programs that vary in length, intensity, and requirements.
This article has highlighted a range of residency programs that can be completed in as short as three years. While these programs may seem less demanding, they still require a great deal of commitment and hard work from the resident physicians.
Choosing a residency program that aligns with personal and professional goals is crucial for success and fulfillment in the medical field. Ultimately, the length of a residency should not be the only deciding factor, as the quality of the program and the opportunities it offers are equally important in shaping a successful career in medicine.
