National Education > General National Education Discussion

How long does it take to become a medical doctor?

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paulsterio:

--- Quote from: msantorini on March 30, 2012, 05:05:48 pm ---Around 5 years as a medical student or what they call the undergraduates then another 3 years training but  then i suggest that you should aim to specialize but that requires around 3-4 more years depending on what specialty you do, this will actually put you in a better position becasue being a plain doctor or what they call a family doctor does not put you in much edge becasue a lot of people now opt for specialists just cause diseases now require more extensive knowledge and people are requiring a more detailed explanation which you can only do so well when uou specialize at a certain field

--- End quote ---

That's not exactly true, and it can be considered hurtful to someone who wishes to specialise in General Practice. First of all, they are not just "plain" doctors, like any other doctor, they have a specific skill set which are required by their specialisation. They also have a different career to some other doctors and some people might prefer to embark on a career as a GP. Unlike what you have suggested, GPs are actually required to refer you to a specialist, in many ways, they are the first point of call for many patients. And lastly, I think you shouldn't use the terms "put you in much edge", there are many, many successful GPs out there, in fact, I haven't heard of many GPs that are poor at all!

Russ:
Strictly speaking, you don't actually need a referral to see a specialist, it just helps a lot.

GP isn't for everyone though, but it's a much more life:work balance friendly option than other specialties

paulsterio:
The general public don't usually call up a specialist and start arranging things, they usually go to their GP first, that's what usually happens right?

Anyway, of course being a GP isn't for everyone, but it's a good speciality and I think msantorini was kinda downplaying its importance and value.

Stick:
I think the GP's job could be a real challenge. They have to be able to point you in the right direction, so they need an adequate understanding of all areas of medicine. A specialist, on the other hand, needs to know a lot but only on a few areas. It's definitely something you should respect. :)

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