DO schools in the US generally offer better residency match rates and lower overall attrition than Caribbean medical schools. However, if DO school is not an option, a strong Caribbean school can still lead to a medical career.
For students deciding between reapplying to US DO programs or attending a Caribbean school, the honest answer requires comparing residency match statistics and financial costs.
US DO Medical School
Timeline: 4 years + residency · Cost: $250,000–$350,000
Caribbean MD School
Timeline: 4 years + USMLE + Match · Cost: $200,000–$300,000
Are DO and MD degrees equivalent for residency applications?
Yes. Since the ACGME/AOA merger in 2020, DO and MD graduates apply to the same residency pool through ERAS/NRMP.
How PhysicianOS Can Help
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