Emergency Medicine Residency Leaders Call for Program Directors to Accept COMLEX-USA

On October 21, 2023, the Council of Residency Directors in Emergency Medicine (CORD) released a statement announcing that they “encourage all programs to accept COMLEX-USA results as equivalent to the USMLE,” and that “osteopathic medical students merit equal opportunity as they apply for residency.” Furthermore, CORD acknowledged that unique challenges may exist for osteopathic seniors and graduates when applying to residency. Twenty-five percent of all medical students are currently pursuing a DO degree, and DO graduates often practice in rural or underserved areas. CORD’s affirmation of support will help strengthen residency placement for DO degree holders and improve rural access to high-quality care.