Overwhelming debt and the long training process deters many from pursuing a career in medicine, but the career's many benefits often outweighs the cons, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Here are five reasons to consider becoming a physician:
1. Physicians can change a patient's life. Physicians know early intervention can help a patient in immeasurable ways. If a physician provides a patient with superior diabetes care, this may prevent limb loss, blindness and other health conditions.
2. Our nation is facing a shortage of up to 90,000 physicians. By 2025, the Association of American Medical College estimates the United States will have a shortage of between 46,000 physicians and 90,000 physicians.
3. As the country diversifies, so should the physician workforce. The United States has a wide variety of cultures, with many different languages, customs and backgrounds. The U.S. physician base should also reflect this diversity as culture impacts care. A more diverse physician base can dispel common stereotypes and educate the healthcare industry.
4. The field needs leaders trying to make a difference.
5. Physicians can use the influx of data to better patient care. As technology advances, the industry will have a substantial amount of data at its fingertips. Physicians can be on the forefront of this data, and leverage it to better our nation's health.
More healthcare news:
Uprooting the core process: Why BioSpine Institute offers patient & surgical concierges at its ASC
4 reasons the healthcare industry should compensate physicians more
SCA, HealthEast partner on Maplewood Surgery Center merger — 4 things to know