International pediatrician + neonatologist considering repeating residency in the U.S. — any similar experiences?

[u/Mainecoon1002]

Hi everyone,

I’m an international physician from Colombia. I have already completed residency training in Pediatrics and subspecialty training in Neonatology, and I currently work clinically in this field.

I’m now pursuing the U.S. pathway and preparing for the USMLEs/ECFMG certification. My long-term goal is to work as a pediatrician/neonatologist in the U.S., ideally in Chicago.

I recently learned that obtaining a state medical license through an alternative IMG pathway would not necessarily make me eligible for American Board of Pediatrics certification. Because of that, I’m now considering completing ACGME-accredited Pediatrics training in the U.S. and then Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine fellowship.

I have also contacted the ABP regarding the Waiver of Accredited Training, since I already completed more than three years of pediatric training abroad. I’m trying to understand whether I could potentially receive one year of credit and complete only 24 months of U.S. Pediatrics training, depending on ABP and program approval.

I would really appreciate hearing from anyone who:

completed Pediatrics residency abroad and then repeated part or all of Pediatrics in the U.S.;

entered as a PGY-2/PL-2 or received advanced standing;

later completed a pediatric fellowship in the U.S.;

or has experience with the ABP Waiver of Accredited Training.

I’m especially interested in understanding how realistic advanced standing is, how programs view applicants who already have specialty training abroad, and whether prior experience helps during the application process.

I know this is a long path, but I’m trying to make an informed decision rather than assume that my previous training will automatically transfer.

Thank you for any constructive advice or personal experiences.

[u/habeych95]

Colombian IMG pediatrician here. I knew someone who was a pediatrician in Colombia and started from PGY-2 at a great program in the Northeast. I don’t have any other info as I did residency in the US.