Recommend medical school or not?

Question

I am in graduate business school and have held business jobs in the past. For a few years, however, I've also worked at a hospital. I enjoy patient care; I get along well with my colleagues, too. Medical school interests me. That said, many doctors seem resentful about insurance, litigation, lack of autonomy, and declining pay; it scares me off. Not sure what to decide.

I used to be idealistic about business careers, and I don't want to repeat that mistake; business is a practical choice and medicine is tough. I'm already in my early thirties. But for better or worse, the thought of med school "haunts" me. I love patient care, and the hospital environment works for me, but is medical school worth it anymore in terms of career satisfaction and job and financial security? My gut tells me to go for it; then my head interferes and I don't know what to do (e.g. residency at age 38? could I stand not having money for the next 10 yrs?)

Can anyone help? What am I missing? Besides guts :)

Answer 1

I don't ever like to discourage anyone from following their dreams or furthering their education, but........

Med schools are often reluctant to accept older students. It will take forever and will be difficult. If you make it through you will work crazy hours, don't even think of trying to have a normal life for a long time.

That being said, you still have options. Becoming a physicians assistant doesn't take as long, and may not require you to do a residency. It is pretty darned close to being a doctor, you can even write prescriptions and make diagnoses on common conditions. Still takes a while to complete though. You could also be an RN, CNA, etc. All are very respectable, work in medical care, and have pleanty of job security. These options don't take as long to attain and could give you the job satisfaction you are looking for.

I wanted to be a pharmacist for a while but was already 30. I learned that the schools may not accept you just because you are older. It would also take about 8 years of school. I decided to do elderly care instead. I also am a school bus driver. I love both jobs.

Good Luck, I hope you find happiness.

Answer 2

Try becoming an LPN (10 month certification, pay between $26,000-$40,000) and then entering a Physician's Assistant program(26 month training, pay between $60,000-$90,000) first.
Most PA schools require 1000 hours of work in the medical field before they'll accept you, and with your LPN experience, you'll have quite a bit of practical knowledge to draw upon.
It's rewarding, intense, pays very well, and gives you some first hand experience alongside doctors and other health professionals, without the 8+ years of schooling.

Answer 3

Why not study med in another country where education is cheaper? There are alot of foreigners studying medicine here in the Philippines. Monthly expenses would be about $250 if you're frugal. Residency at 38 doesn't sound bad at all.

Answer 4

Its is hard work but it is great pay

Answer 5

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