Like everything in life, you have to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. The same goes for becoming a physician. The cons of becoming a doctor include the long training process, medical school debt, burnout, regulations, and the possibility of malpractice lawsuits. But despite these hurdles, thousands start the journey every year. Civilization needs qualified doctors. It’s a higher calling that requires sacrifice, dedication, and good thinking. We admire those who take the journey because they keep us healthy and alive. This article will take a closer look at the benefits of becoming a doctor in 2020.
High-Income Potential
It’s no secret that physicians enjoy a very high salary when compared to the average income for most people. Today, the average physician takes home approximately $313,000 annually. The potential income varies by specialty, with more specialized physicians taking home a higher salary. Orthopedists are the highest-paid at $482,000. Family medicine doctors and pediatricians earn $230,000 on average. Aside from the high-income potential, there are many other benefits of becoming a doctor, like job security.
Job Security
Physicians will always be in high demand. The baby boomer generation is currently retiring, which means a lot of job opportunities for younger physicians are opening. Even though the healthcare industry is experiencing changes, people will always need to be cared for on a human level. No matter where you decide to practice, you’re likely to find work.
Flexibility
There are many work options within the healthcare industry that allow physicians, nurses, technicians, and other healthcare professionals to have a rewarding career with flexibility. Workplace flexibility is the ability to have some control over how, when, and where you work. With advancements in technology with Telehealth and telemedicine, doctors are now able to deliver healthcare services remotely. If you ever tire of what you’re doing as a doctor, you can always switch into another specialty or move to research or administrative work.
Saving Lives
It doesn’t get much more rewarding than saving a life in terms of work rewards. If you want a job that makes a positive impact on the world, it doesn’t get much better than being a doctor. Physicians not only save lives, but they help improve the quality of life for their patients. People with disabling injuries can enjoy life with help from doctors. Medical professionals improve the life of their patients and their patient’s family.
A Positive Influence
Society sees doctors as heroes. Besides helping patients with physical needs, physicians help people in an intellectual way and guide them towards making better life choices. The ripple effect can change the entire life course of a patient for the better. Making better health choices can lead to better relationships and job opportunities. When you become a doctor, people regard you as a professional expert, with informed insights that are worth listening to.