Is Applying to Medical School After Pharmacy School Worth It?
Deciding whether to apply to medical school after completing your pharmacy degree is a significant career decision. Here are some factors to consider:
Reasons for Considering Medical School
Many individuals embark on a pharmacy career with the ultimate goal of becoming a physician. However, making this transition after pharmacy school requires careful thought and planning. One pharmacist, who also has a dual PharmD and MD degree, provides a unique perspective. She waited several years to pursue her medical degree while maintaining her pharmacy license. This experience highlights the potential benefits and challenges of such a career transition.
Long-Term Career Planning
Transitioning from pharmacy to medical school can be seen as a delayed gratification strategy. While pharmacy school provides solid foundational knowledge, medical school requires a fresh start, including new coursework. If your goal is to become a physician, the decision to go back to school should align with your long-term life goals and professional aspirations.
The Delay: Risks and Rewards
There are both benefits and drawbacks to delaying your medical school application by a few years. On one hand, you have the benefit of working in your chosen field and gaining practical experience. This experience can help you make an informed decision about whether you truly want to pursue medical school. On the other hand, waiting too long might make it harder to follow through with your next steps, especially if opportunities arise or interest fades.
Financial Considerations
Another important aspect to consider is the financial burden of going back to school. Pharmacy school comes with significant student debt, often in the form of loans. To pursue medical school after pharmacy, you may need to double or triple your existing debt. Assess whether you are comfortable with this financial commitment and whether the potential rewards justify the added financial strain.
Career Versatility in Pharmacy
Pharmacy offers a variety of opportunities that may not require a medical degree. Current trends indicate a growing role for pharmacists in healthcare, particularly with states allowing pharmacists to have prescriptive authority under collaborative practice agreements. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a progressive example, where pharmacists can significantly impact patient care. This illustrates the diverse career paths available in pharmacy, which may not only be financially rewarding but also fulfilling in their own right.
Alternative Career Paths
If becoming a physician is still your ultimate goal, consider other medical career paths. Physician Assistants (PAs) can be an alternative route, providing more training in diagnostics and more prescriptive authority in a shorter timeframe. This can be a compelling option if you want to start practicing sooner and still gain exposure to the diagnostic side of healthcare.
Conclusion
The decision to apply to medical school after pharmacy school is multifaceted and should be carefully weighed. It involves considering personal and professional goals, financial implications, and the potential paths available in healthcare. While many individuals find it worth the investment, the final decision should be tailored to your unique circumstances and aspirations.