FAQ

This page features some of the most common questions that health care professionals have about joining the Military. If you have any further questions, contact a recruiter.

Joining the Military

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Officer Training

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Medical School Scholarships

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Military Medical School

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Residency + Match Day

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Medical Resident Program

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Deployment

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Part-Time Service

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Licensed Physician Options

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Specific Careers

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  • Will I be able to choose my specialty?

    As a military medical student, you can choose your specialty, but your specialty will also depend on the needs of the Military at that time. If you are applying for a competitive residency, you may not be selected and will have to complete a Post Graduate Year 1 (PGY-1) year and reapply. You may also need to serve as a General Medical Officer (GMO) before reapplying. If you are interested in a certain specialty, contact a recruiter for more information. 

  • What is a flight surgeon?

    A Flight Surgeon is a physician with specialized training and board certification in aviation and aerospace medicine. They provide medical care for pilots and crew members travelling in air and space. Flight surgeons are also required to get flight time with their units.

  • What is a general medical officer?

    A GMO is similar to a general medical practitioner. GMOs are often attached to specific units, air wings, ships or submarines. Military medical students in the Navy and Air Force who do not match to a residency may be expected to do a PGY-1 year and then serve as a GMO before beginning a residency.

    Learn more about the GMOs and the special training they receive

  • Can I go straight into a research field?

    There are ample research opportunities for both students and residents. As a 2nd year student you can be part of research rotations, after completing your officer training. Military's residency programs are approved by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), and residents have the opportunity to participate in, and even lead, research protocols.

    Learn about the unique research opportunities and programs available for military physicians

     
  • What are my career options?

    You can work both as a full-time or part-time physician in the military. You also have a wide range of medical specialties to choose from.

    Learn more about the career paths under the three Service Branches

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Daily Work

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Benefits

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