Quote:
Originally Posted by FutureDoc2
Yea I definitely see what your saying. I've been doing a lot of research/thinking and my biggest problem is the pay. In the military, Pods only make 70k-I can make so much more after residency and gaining a position in the civilian sector! However, I'm thinking, wouldnt I break even eventually? Say for instance I graduate from Podiatry school with ~$160,000 (possibly more) worth of loans, gain a position making ~$120,000 (possibly more or even less) right out of residency, after taxes I'd bring home ~$100,000/yr, then have to pay back loans, living expenses, insurance, car note, etc.wouldnt I making $70,000 anyway? Military covers everything else-tuition, housing, insurance, etc. I could do a civilian residency and then pay back my time to the military (~4 years) or do a military residency (without reaping their benefits) and time would be paid. One thing I do like about the military is the diversity-cases, ppl, etc. Im still thinking tho....Does this make sense? Could you elaborate a little more on how the cases would be limited???
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There has been a post on this forum regarding the HPSP, I think the point OP tried to make in that post was if you are not too desperate for money in the short term, then don't do it. The same is said for the other military scholarship programs offered to MD/DO. Of course I am not even close to doing residency, therefore I can't tell you the exact experience. However, I believe that more opportunities will be offered in the civilian sector. If you are someone into foot reconstruction or other surgical procedures, the military won't be able to offer you much cases. You will do a certain number of wound care. The worst part for me is probably to relocate to somewhere completely new. Yes after 4 years you can do whatever you wish, however it also breaks even for those who earned their living in the civilian sector, if not more. I also thought about doing the military route once, however I told myself that everything comes with a price. The HPSP will give you a sense of stability, that you have little to worry about during your school and your residency years. However in the long term you will be making less. Those 4 years can be 4 years of medical experience and many things can happen in 4 years. To me, I believe if I keep working hard and maintain a positive attitude, I will be successful in the career and don't have to worry about the money issue. That being said, if you are passionate about serving this country and providing the medical care to those who protect our nation, then go for it. If this is truly a money issue, then stay out of it and work hard to get a reputable residency.