Originally posted by MyEyesMesmerize
I'm going to list some currently offered dual degree programs and was looking for input as to what each is suited for or what the outlook is for each. Thanks for any info.
MD/PhD
MD/MPH
MD/MBA
MD/MHA
MD/JD
MD/MPA
DO NOT, I REPEAT, DO NOT do dual degree just so you can have more post-nominal letters. It'll just waste your time and money.
That said,
MD/PhD - mainly refers to a MD and a PHD in a basic science field (but could also be a PHD in the humanities, health care policy, etc.) Physician scientist are exposed to both the bench work and the clinical care aspect. While doing benchwork, their clinical perspective might be helpful, and while doing clinical, their understanding of basic science (and current literature about the basic science behind their speciality) might give them a broader understanding. Sometimes MD/PHD are tapped to run programs that try to bridge the gap between bench and clinical work, due to their unique training. Expect an additional 3-to-infinity years to complete the PHD aspect.
MD/MPH - master of public health. Basically for those who want to have a better understanding of epidemiology, biostatistics, effects of policy issues, and the differences between case studies and case control (trohoc). Basically prepares you for large scale medicine - so instead of worrying about a patient in a ward, you are worrying about an entire group or community. Ideal for those interested in working for FDA, CDC, health policy panels, etc. Expect an additional 0-2 years to your schooling (depends on program)
MD/MBA - physician managers. Good physicians are sometimes bad at handling money and economics. Different focus, different goals, different values. MD/MBA programs will teach you to view health care from a business model - learning about different types of risks, cost-effective measures, and compare different life-saving programs in terms of cost per life year saved. MD/MBA are great for those who want to handle large scale economics, such as hospital administrators, HMO, pharmaceuticals, health policy panels, etc. Do not do MD/MBA just so you can learn how to better run a private practice, because you'll learn about the business of health care in a larger context than private practice. Expect an additional 0-2 years to your schooling (depends on program).
MD/MHA - Physician-Health Care Administrator. MHA programs will provide you with the education needed to be in a managerial position in a health care setting - hospitals, private practice, managed care, nursing homes, etc. Basically it's like a combination between MBA and MPH. You'll learn about the health care system, managerial principles, team building skills, analytical and problem resolution methods and skills. Expect an additional 0-2 years to your schooling (again, depends on the program).
MD-JD. WORTHLESS
MD/MPA. MPA programs are designed to bring together the private and public sectors. Basically you learn how to develop policy that is best for your target audience and the long term impact/implication of your policy. I really don't know enough about MD/MPA to say any more. Look on school's website for more information.
OK, need to find something else to do to fight my insomnia
