Reasons to Become a Doctor

So, what do you want to be when you grow up? This question nags at some folks well into the middle age years. Other people know exactly what they want to be-a doctor. The pursuit of a medical degree is a decision that usually starts very early in life. Besides the obvious benefit of becoming a doctor (to make your parents proud) there are many other important reasons why you would want to become a doctor.

Money

Many people choose to become doctors because of the money. According to PayScale.com, the median salary for a general practice physician in the United States is about $118,000 per year. A specialist can make more than 200,000 per year. Many doctors are able to live comfortable, upper middle class lifestyles.

Helping People

If you enjoy helping people, this is a great reason to become a doctor, even moreso than money. As a doctor you will have to interact with people on a daily basis. You are taken into the patient's life and it becomes a part of your life, at least temporarily. It is rewarding to cure and comfort patients as they are going through difficult situations. So if you like to help people, and are personable, this is a great career to consider.

Long Term Learning

Doctors go to school officially for about 10 to 15 years (including residency), but the learning does not stop there. Doctors go through a constant process of learning new techniques, new treatments, and researching solutions that is both stimulating and rewarding for both doctor and patient. If you enjoy intellectual stimulation and conquering challenges, then you will like being a doctor.

Teaching

While you continue to learn throughout your career as a doctor, you also have the opportunity to teach new doctors what you know. So in a way, becoming a doctor is also like becoming a teacher. In fact, many doctors become well-paid professors at local colleges (two incomes) to help teach and mentor younger medical students. This is true for all types of doctors, including general practice doctors, pediatricians, specialists, and even dentists.

Job Security

While you can be fired from a job as a doctor, you will always be in high demand. The healthcare field will always be in need of doctors and other medical personnel, whether it be in a high profile doctor's office, an emergency room, or a free clinic setting. There is a certain level of job security that is inherent in becoming a doctor.

Sources:

Doctor Salaries

http://www.payscale.com/research/US/People_with_Jobs_as_Physicians_%2F_Doctors/Salary