I notice it every day. Between car work and aquariums, I have spent a lot more time applying things I already know to the body than learning new diagnostic thinking or properties of physics for example. Good mechanics (not mindless parts replacers who are the midlevels of mechanics) use the exact same type of thinking as physicians and it's part of what drew me to medicine. There is definitely still a blue collar element to a lot of good specialties.
I started work in a local gas station (Al's Standard) when I was fourteen.
I pumped gas, cleaned windshields, checked oil levels, air pressure, etc.
My boss was an ace mechanic and a patient teacher.
I learned about cars and mechanical service.
Working in around an automotive shop exposed me to the need for creative problem solving and challenged me to think pragmatically.
I learned that a good automotive mechanic must be familiar with "normal", have the ability to recognize and define "abnormal", and have the experience and ability to right what's wrong.
For a growing teenager, it was a good job.
I did not like the effects the work had on my hands. Having "mechanics' hands" compelled me to explore alternative career fields.
Eventually, I got into medicine. I studied and learned human anatomy and physiology. I worked as an orderly, an R.N., and as a P.A..
I completed a post graduate P.A. residency in surgery/trauma/critical care.
I enjoyed a thirty (plus) year career...
and am now retired.
I found practicing medicine is much like automotive repair:
know "normal", identify and define "abnormal", and correct what's wrong.
Over the years, I have often related that I went into medicine because I enjoy combining knowledge, information, training, experience, and creative problem solving.
I like fixing what's wrong.
I went into medicine rather than automotive mechanics because...
Human Anatomy and Physiology does not change year after year,
there are fewer variations in human models and designs to be familiar with,
and,
my hands have been easier to clean.
addendum:
Please don't "roast" me because I was a P.A..
I am proud to say my "M.O." over the years was to "know what's really going on. Don't take the easy way out and make up a diagnosis to fit your agenda. Know what's really going on."
Yes! P.As. were created to ASSIST, not replace.
I remember when the AAPA and the AMA were strong supporters of each other and the AAPA EMPHASIZED Physician supervision.
