I respectfully disagree with that physician. I think it depends on the individual but for most, it can only help. Why? It shows that you've experienced healthcare as a provider and that you know what you're getting yourself into. True, being an EMT is nothing like being a physician but it shows that you've had experience in treating patients. If you went and worked in healthcare and lose interest in it, then becoming a physician is the wrong choice. I worked for two and a half years as an EMT and it only strengthened my desire to become a doc. It also helps if you like whatever allied health profession you choose. I absolutely loved working EMS. You might also gain an idea of what it's like to be a doc. True, lots of hospital staff treat EMS like crap so it is understandable if someone develops ill feelings towards docs. This is the wrong reaction in my opinion, IF you are still going into medicine. Just make a vow that when you become a doc, that you don't do the same. EMS is a vital aspect of healthcare and should be respected for what they do. That's one of the vows I made to myself through my work as an EMT.
