Programs MD vs PhD Workload: Comparing Time Commitments

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The discussion centers on comparing the workloads and career paths of pursuing a PhD versus an MD. There is a consideration of the financial implications of each path, with some questioning the assumption that MDs earn significant net income, given the high costs of medical education and the debt many incur. The conversation highlights the importance of passion for the field, particularly in medicine, as a critical factor for success. Additionally, there is a recognition that both careers involve dealing with challenging interpersonal situations, including patient interactions, which may not align with everyone's preferences. Overall, the dialogue emphasizes the need for genuine interest in the chosen field to avoid dissatisfaction and failure.
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Just wondering what the workload is like when you compare the two? As much as I like pure science, sometimes i figure if I'm doing all this schoolwork for a PhD why not just get an MD and make a ton of money instead?
 
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If you aren't interested in being a doctor or a scientist, you'll fail miserably at both. Don't be bloody lazy. If you like pure science, then the courseload will be fun for you, so what exactly is the problem?
 
torquemada said:
Just wondering what the workload is like when you compare the two? As much as I like pure science, sometimes i figure if I'm doing all this schoolwork for a PhD why not just get an MD and make a ton of money instead?

What makes you think MDs make (net) a lot of money? The cost of getting to the MD is quite high.

And do you have a passion for medicine? Do you enjoy patient contacts and helping people who need help? Do you have any experience or exposure to working in the health care field?
 
not in healthcare - but i hate customer service and whiny ppl
 
berkeman said:
What makes you think MDs make (net) a lot of money? The cost of getting to the MD is quite high.

Don't doctors do really well?
 
torquemada said:
Don't doctors do really well?

I think in the long term, most do okay. In the short term, I think many are in substantial debt from loans to pay for their education. There have been some threads discussing this... I'll see if I can find the discussions...
 
torquemada said:
not in healthcare - but i hate customer service and whiny ppl

And you don't think you'll be dealing with some whiny people as a doctor? I work part-time in healthcare (as an EMT), and that expectation is not very realistic, IMO.
 

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