2 answers
Oluebube
Student
Raleigh, North Carolina
2
Questions
Asked
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What is something about working in medicine that surprised you once you actually started your career?
I’m a high school student planning to go into pre-med, and I’ve been learning a lot about medicine from classes and research. But I know that what you learn in school isn’t always the same as real-life experience. I asked this question because I want to understand what the job is actually like from people who are already in the field. Their answers will help me get a more realistic idea of what to expect.
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2 answers
Nathalye Lopez
40
Answers
Updated
Nathalye’s Answer
Hi Oluebube,
One of the most surprising things about medicine is how crucial good communication is. Patients often come in for one issue but end up sharing a lot about their lives. It's important to guide these conversations so you get the necessary information while still connecting with them. Explaining medical plans and treatments in simple terms, without using too much medical jargon, can be challenging but is essential. Although we communicate daily, doing so effectively with patients is a unique skill.
One of the most surprising things about medicine is how crucial good communication is. Patients often come in for one issue but end up sharing a lot about their lives. It's important to guide these conversations so you get the necessary information while still connecting with them. Explaining medical plans and treatments in simple terms, without using too much medical jargon, can be challenging but is essential. Although we communicate daily, doing so effectively with patients is a unique skill.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Oluebube
Rita Chuang
Physician
317
Answers
Henderson, Nevada
Updated
Rita’s Answer
I think what surprised me about medicine is it's very important how to deal with people. There are so many different personalities and it can be quite challenging. What is important to me as a doctor may not be important to the patient. When I was young, I would respect the doctor but I feel that doctors have lost respect. I was often told what to do by patients. I would get messages. I'm sick and I want an antibiotic. The patients also group several problems in one visit and it is challenging when you have limited time to deal with so many patients. Patients expect you to spend a lot of time when you don't have the time. They expect to be seen the same day when your schedule is already full.
Although you will make a good money in medicine, it's not how it use to be. When I had my own practice, I was paid the same amount (or less) by 90% of the insurances in over 20 years. Unfortunately, everything increases in costs (rent, utilities, staff pay etc). Most doctors burn out. It's not an easy job and it's often not 8-5 Monday to Friday. You work long hours after work answering questions (without additional pay).
Although you will make a good money in medicine, it's not how it use to be. When I had my own practice, I was paid the same amount (or less) by 90% of the insurances in over 20 years. Unfortunately, everything increases in costs (rent, utilities, staff pay etc). Most doctors burn out. It's not an easy job and it's often not 8-5 Monday to Friday. You work long hours after work answering questions (without additional pay).
Loved reading this, thanks!
Oluebube