The first thing to do is really assess whether transferring is the right thing to do - personally, profesionally, etc... Try not to make any rash decisions. However, after thoughtful analysis of the situation, if transferring seems to be the best option sit down with your Program Director and Department Chairman and outline the issues.
Transferring is very complicated because of course you have to find a program that either has an opening or one that can add an "extra" resident (with the blessing of the RRC). That's not always as easy as you might think as it turns out. If you identify a program and get the blessing of your current administrators (they do have to allow you to break your contract) then there's a possibility that it can all work out in your favor.
Final words of advice - if you are thinking about transferring make sure that you give your current program ample time to fill your vacated spot (if they choose to fill it).
I am in somewhat of a similar situation...however, I am currently in a nsurg residency in good standing....at this time I am fairly disenchanted with my choice of specialty...I thoroughly enjoy spine surgery...however, I cannot say the same about the rest of the nervous system as well as the very sick and dying patients I deal with everyday...I'd like to transfer to a program in my hometown and pursue orthopedics with the plan of subspecializing in spine surgery....any thoughts on how I should proceed??
If you were competitive enough to get a neurosurgery position I assume you had good "scores", etc... If that is the case, then it's possible but still challenging to switch. The easiest way is to get a spot in your home program if one becomes available - I would make an appointment with the Program Director or Department Chairman of Orthopaedic Surgery to initiate the discussion and explore possibilities. If there is not a spot available (which is obviously a long shot) - then you have to decide if you really want to go through the match (which you'd have to do ASAP).
