MD/PhD Dilemma

[KikiCecchetti]

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So, I am currently a sophomore Biochemistry/Biology major with a 3.97 GPA, I've not taken the MCAT, but feel that I will probably get a competitive score.
My dilemma however is that I love research and cannot make a decision whether or not I want to become a physician-scientist or just a regular physician (my field would be oncology or endocrinology). I would like to do a MD/PhD programme because I feel that this would leave me more options and longer to decide whether or not I want to do research permanently.
I currently work in an Enzymology Lab and absolutely love it, I am working on my first paper with 1st authorship.
Would pursuing my MD/PhD be the best option for me? Am I correct in thinking that this would allow me longer to choose?
Would I be able to perform research as well as treat patients?
I would appreciate any help.

Thank you,
Kiki

 

[Neuronix]

Would I be able to perform research as well as treat patients?

MD/PhD programs have the general goal of producing physician-scientists who spend 80%+ of their time as researchers and maybe 10-20% of their time as clinicians.

If you see yourself this way, do MD/PhD. If not, do MD, as you can always come back to research later as an MD. If you can't decide, well I can't make up your mind for you 😀

As for uncertainty, I'm more uncertain now about research than I ever was. It's not an easy thing to do and you don't have all the facts/knowledge to make a decision with you experience. Just do what seems right to you, keeping in mind the 80%+ research thing.