3 Things You Need to Know if You Want to be a Doctor

“What do you want to become when you grow up?” is probably one of the most common questions you were asked as a child by your parents or teachers. Raising your hand, you may be one of those who would proudly say “I want to be doctor!”

 

If you are passionate about looking after the health care of patients and saving other people’s lives, perhaps being a doctor is right for you! But before you start enrolling in a med school and picture yourself wearing the white laboratory gown, here are 3 of the most important things you need to know about this profession:

 

1. Course duration

Medicine is a long course and it will take years before you can actually become a doctor. Aside from the 4 to 5 years you’re going to spend in a pre-med undergraduate course like Medical Technology, Biology, or Psychology, you will undergo another 4 years to get a Doctor of Medicine degree. The first two years will focus on the basic scientific skills and legal knowledge while the final years will require you to practice actual clinical rotations under the supervision of experienced doctors.

 

If you think that would be all, you’re wrong. After obtaining your Doctor in Medicine, you’ll have to enter residency programs which could last from 3 to 7 years depending on the specialty you will choose. After completing the program, you need to take the Medical Licensure Exam by the Professional Regulation Commission. This can also take some time if you are considering going to a review center before taking the exam.

 

2. Working hours

Because of the nature of the job, being a doctor does not usually follow the regular 8 am to 5 pm schedule. Off on weekends and holidays may not always be as often especially during occasions where the whole medical department is on Code Red like the New Year’s eve. You will typically be on call 24/7. There will also be times where you will be required to work more than 24 hours.

 

3. Continuous need for learning

Learning does not end after you received your diploma and earn your license. In fact, the real learning just starts there. You will be surrounded by brilliant and more knowledgeable people in the field that will push you to work harder. Since medicine is an evolving industry, more and more breakthroughs are coming out. You need to refresh your knowledge everyday. Learn to use different technologies. You may also have to attend various trainings and seminars relevant to your profession.

 

Being a doctor is not easy. It takes a lot of years of practice, dedication, and hardwork. But with the right attitude and determination, you can become what you want to be!

 

Ready to map your career in medicine? Visit Edukasyon.ph and browse through thousands of schools, courses, and scholarships that can help you be a doctor!