is a medical career right for you? key factors to consider before diving in

Are you considering a new career or taking the next step in your professional life? If so, a career in medicine might be on your mind. It's a smart choice, but there are some key factors you should keep in mind.

Photo by Karolina Kaboompics

cost

First, consider the costs involved. Training in the medical field can cost quite a lot, with annual training expenses running into the thousands. If you aim to become a doctor, you're looking at student costs upwards of two hundred thousand dollars. However, it's not all doom and gloom. Once you qualify, doctors typically earn some of the highest salaries, especially in the private sector. This means you can quickly recoup the money you invested in your education.

time

​Next, consider the possibility of time - training can take many years, even for some of the entry-level positions, which require significant skill and experience before you can start earning a living. If you're eager to move forward quickly, a medical career might not be the best choice for you. There are plenty of other options that could better suit your timeline and won't require the four or more years it takes to progress in the medical field.

choices

​People often think that a career in the medical field means becoming either a doctor or a nurse, but that's not true. The medical sector is diverse, offering many different career paths. For example, you could consider a degree from a medical assistant college. This option is an excellent choice if you want to be in the heart of the action and help people in need.

day-to-day

Finally, consider the personal demands of a medical career. We've discussed the professional requirements, but it's also important to think about the personal aspects. To succeed in medicine, you need to thrive under pressure. Additionally, you need to consider how you handle tragedy, as losing patients can be a part of the job unless you specialize in an area where this is less common. Ultimately, it's crucial to do thorough research to determine if a medical career is the right choice for you.