Is Pursuing MBBS/MD/MS Worth the Time, Money, and Effort?
No career is without its challenges, and the medical profession is certainly no exception. However, the rewards are substantial. Let's delve deeper into the nuances of the medical field and explore whether it is worth the time, money, and effort spent.
Disclaimer
Herein, the information and opinions presented are based on my personal experiences and observations. They do not represent a general consensus on the profession. This is a detailed exploration, so please bear with me as I share my thoughts.
Understanding the Challenges
First, we need to understand two critical points:
No Exaggeration: Doctors Face Increasing Violence
It is widely acknowledged that doctors are increasingly facing acts of violence. This phenomenon can be attributed to the heavy workload and the environment in which medical professionals operate. However, it is crucial to note that blanket disputation of a doctor's competency should not be the norm.
Government Hospitals and Overcrowding
Government hospitals in India operate under a welfare model, catering to a majority of impoverished citizens who lack health insurance. These hospitals, which offer subsidized medical care, often see a large number of patients daily, with some departments seeing close to 350 patients a day. This significant patient load can lead to compromised quality of care, which may understandably lead to dissatisfaction among patients and their attendants.
Communication Breakdown and Emotional Turmoil
Long wait times and ineffective communication in such high-pressure environments can exacerbate emotions, particularly when a diagnosis involves financial strain. This can create a toxic environment where anger towards doctors is easily rationalized.
The Safety Dilemma
Despite these challenges, doctors often become the primary security personnel in government hospitals, particularly during the night shift, which leaves them vulnerable to violent incidents.
Systemic Issues
The lack of proper protocols for handling violent incidents, coupled with a corrupt police force and a judiciary that is often criticized for its inefficacy, exacerbates the safety concerns for medical professionals. Unlike other public servants, there are no distinct penalties for assaulting a physician, which emboldens perpetrators to continue their actions.
Media Influence and Public Perception
Indian media often sensationalizes incidents involving doctors, contributing to a negative public perception. The aim is often to drive clicks and revenue, rather than providing accurate information. This misinformation can further demoralize and dissuade potential medical professionals.
Personal Journey and Reflection
While I, too, have experienced these challenges, my journey has also been marked by moments of inspiration and service to humanity. My parents and grandpa instilled in me the belief that goodwill service to humankind is the true purpose of life. This belief has guided me through the challenging times in my medical career.
A Path to Inner Peace
Despite the adversities, I have fostered resilience by learning to have hope in times of despair and by providing hope to those in distress. The ordeal has solidified my resolve to continue in this noble profession, and I believe that the rewards outweigh the challenges.
Conclusion
If you are equipped with the mindset to sidestep the inherent difficulties of the medical profession and place your focus on providing goodwill service, then yes, the time, money, and effort invested in studying and practicing medicine are well worth it.
Resilience, hope, and a sense of purpose can turn the tide and make your journey rewarding. As I often remind myself: "Deep in my heart I do believe, We shall overcome someday."
Best regards,
Sandeep Das