Is it Necessary to Do an MD in Ayurveda After BAMS?

When considering the path of becoming an Ayurvedic physician, one pivotal question often arises: is it necessary to pursue an M.D. in Ayurveda after obtaining a Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS)?

Pursuing an M.D. in Ayurveda can undoubtedly enhance a practitioner's expertise, research capabilities, and clinical skills. However, it is possible to become a highly effective physician with just a BAMS degree, provided one continues to learn and practice diligently. Advancing one's education with a specialized degree may open doors to more specialized positions and career opportunities within healthcare.

MD Ayurveda and Expertise in Ayurveda: Two Different Concepts

It is essential to distinguish between holding an M.D. in Ayurveda and being an expert in the field. An M.D. in Ayurveda is a qualification that can significantly aid in career advancement and public recognition, but it does not automatically make one an expert in Ayurveda.

All subjects are vast, and it is impossible to claim expertise in any field. As information and knowledge evolve continuously, what one knows today may change tomorrow. An expert today may not be an expert tomorrow due to the evolving nature of knowledge. Therefore, any degree or certificate is most relevant only at the time of obtaining it.

Any newly minted graduate can surpass an older one who has not been updated with the latest information. In other words, not every M.D. is an expert, and not every expert has an M.D. The value of additional degrees like M.D., Ph.D., etc., is most relevant when you aim for employment or seek to project a professional image. Employers and the public often use these qualifications as a proxy to gauge expertise.

Limitations of Modern Nutritional Understanding in Ayurveda

The misconception that eating specific foods, such as calcium to strengthen bones or flesh to improve muscle, automatically translates into improved health is entirely incorrect. Our current understanding of nutrition and metabolism reveals that the human body converts whatever we consume into the necessary nutrients through the metabolic process. Any excess beyond what is required is stored as fat for future use.

True expertise in Ayurveda lies in a deep understanding of the individual’s unique physical and metabolic needs. A physician should strive to understand how and what food converts into required nutrients in the body, how problems arise in different circumstances, and the intricacies of metabolic processes. This comprehensive knowledge cannot be obtained solely through a textbook or a degree; it is built through continuous learning, practical experience, and a deep understanding of the patient's individual constitution.

Deciding Between BAMS and M.D. Ayurveda

The decision to pursue an M.D. in Ayurveda or to focus on practical experience and continuous learning should be based on one's professional goals. If the goal is career advancement, additional training and certification can be beneficial. However, if the primary aim is to provide high-quality, personalized care based on a deep understanding of each patient, a BAMS degree combined with ongoing education and experience may suffice.

Ultimately, the key to success in Ayurveda lies not in the acquisition of a degree but in the depth of knowledge, continuous learning, and the ability to adapt to new research and evolving understanding in the field.