It's because there is a hivemind here. I've argued that an FM doc coming straight out of residency isn't as prepared as an EM doc but that with some training (particularly in central lines and intubations) could likely handle a community ER. The fact is this happens and it's legal. It doesn't just happen in rural ERs. There are FM docs in ERs here in NJ.

Those statements do nothing to diminish an EM residency which obviously prepares you specifically for the ER. There is a ton of overlap in the education which is why there are combined FM/EM residencies. The mindset is that all FM does is sit in a clinic for three years and give referrals. It couldn't be further from the truth.

There are bad FM residencies out there and bad FM doctors. FM isn't competitive and it doesn't attract the top tier medical students. It doesn't mean that you can't get a good education, training, and be suitable to work in a variety of settings: outpatient, ER, and inpatient.

I've been downvoted the same, but nothing I said is an opinion.