Some people consider the life of a physician glamorous and exciting, while others think it is dull and demanding. However, the reality of the career could be significantly different from what people think. For example, TV shows may depict a medical career as exciting and fulfilling, but they rarely highlight their unpredictable days with many patients and piles of paperwork to handle. With a quick peek into the life of a physician, one might wonder whether to commit to becoming a doctor. Since this is a critical career decision, it is important to conduct thorough research. Fortunately, this article makes part of the process easy by highlighting critical factors to consider before pursuing this career.
Salary
Physicians usually receive lucrative salaries due to the value attached to health and the academic requirements to treat patients. Although the salaries are generally high, many factors can affect what doctors take home. The wages vary based on the doctor’s experience, field of specialization, employer, licenses, academic accomplishments, and geographical location. Therefore, it is crucial to compare PA salaries in different states to adjust expectations accordingly. Despite the long working hours and extensive training required to join a medical career, physicians are among the generously compensated professionals.
Opportunities for Career Growth
Some people are always seeking opportunities for personal and career growth. Doctors can pursue higher education, get relevant certifications, and increase career opportunities. They can work with different organizations in different locations since there is high demand for competent physicians. For example, a doctor can choose to work in public or private hospitals, learning institutions, correctional facilities, medical centers, emergency response organizations, research institutions, or start a private practice. Besides, a competent doctor with years of experience can easily access employment opportunities and negotiate for better pay. However, they spend many hours gaining skills and relevant experience to advance their career.
Working Hours
Doctors strive to save lives and improve the health of their patients. Therefore, the nature of their job demands that they work long hours, sometimes even at night, holidays, and weekends in different settings. Besides, they need to respond quickly if they are called to attend to patients even when they should be at home with their families and friends. This might be hard for their families and friends to understand. Physicians sometimes have to miss events such as weddings and social gatherings when busy at work. Although doctors are generously compensated for the long working hours, they may not enjoy a good work-life balance because of their unpredictable schedules.
Specialization
There are many fields of knowledge doctors can pursue based on the career opportunities available, abilities, and personal preferences. For example, a doctor can focus on a specific field to become a family doctor, cardiologist, oncologist, pediatrician, obstetrician, dermatologist, surgeon, anesthesiologist, neurologist, or psychiatrist. However, some areas of specialization require advanced skills and experience. The specialists are also exposed to various occupational health risks that might affect their lives. Since new health challenges arise in different fields, doctors need continuous learning.
Cost of Education
The path to becoming a doctor is associated with high financial obligations. Therefore, it is crucial to consider scholarships and affordable training programs to ease the burden. Without financial aid or grants, the students might accumulate huge education debts that might affect their financial goals later.
These are the critical factors that can guide a person interested in becoming a doctor. So is this career worth it? This is a tough question and the answer depends on a thorough assessment of these factors. Therefore, weigh the costs and benefits to make a sound decision.