greek orthopeadic seeking a job in USA

[greekdoctor]

Hi. I am a greek doctor (orthopaedic) and i recently became a holder of a USA green card (most of my family currently lives in New York).
Now, I have to decide whether i will stay in Greece or move to New York and seek a medical job.
I have read enough posts and articles about the procedure an IMG has to follow, but i think i need further guidance.
As i mentioned before, i already am a specialized doctor (which i understand doesn't really matter).
I don't intend to do any other job( a non-medical one), but if i have to, i can do a different residency programme (non-orthopaedic).
I have a lot of questions.
Does my green card offer me any privilege towards the licensing procedure?
What exactly do i have to do to work as a doctor in New York?
If i seek a non-clinical medical job (work in pharmaceutical industry or as a medical writer), do i still have to go through the same procedure?
And what are my options in finding a job like that?

Thanks in advance.
Lia.

[anatolyk]

You can't get licensed in any state witthout passing USMLE's and completing a residency. It's a long journey. Passing USMLEs takes from 8 months to several years depending on your readiness. Do a self assessment test at NY Kaplan to find out where you stand. Finding a residency takes another year. Minimal residency length is another 3 years.

Start at www.usmle.org

[greekdoctor]

So, even if you want a job as a medical writer,you still have to attend a residency programme?

[anatolyk]

Not at all. My reply was focused on physician job.

Many people work as advanced medical or surgical assistants while taking the USMLEs.

[greekdoctor]

I am not really interested in assisting other doctors.I find that depressing.
Can i work as a medical writer or in pharmaceutical industry , having only my european credentials?
And how easy or difficult would be for me to find that kind of a job?