MD/PhD Programs

[sdelucia]

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Hey y'all! Recently I've been looking into MD/PhD programs but I'm confused on whether or not I'm locked into research if I decide to take that path. I'm split between wanting to pursue medicine and research so I thought this was a good way to get both. So say I go through with a MD/PhD program could I still be a dermatologist or surgeon if I wanted? Any help would be great!

 

[pioneer22]

technically, sure. Most md/phd students dont end up in surgery, but usually take more research-heavy academic professsion (ie. neurology).

if youre not sure, do more research on what md / phd means. usually 8+ years of training, followed by residency or postdoc. you have to reallllly like research and see, and articulate how it will be a key part of your future.

you can always do plenty of research as an MD student / attending physician—the phd does not give you permission for research...many MD's do just as much as phd's can.

 

[eteshoe]

agree 100% with @pioneer22

 

[Lucca]

Probably not the best idea to go down the path if you want to decide between research or medicine. Do, however, stay involved in research and contact md PhD students and md PhD grads you can find to talk to them about the career path. Physician scientist forum is a good resource as well, lots of good threads there including one with compiled responses from dual degree and MD only physician scientists about their careers.

 

[Shaq]

Hey y'all! Recently I've been looking into MD/PhD programs but I'm confused on whether or not I'm locked into research if I decide to take that path. I'm split between wanting to pursue medicine and research so I thought this was a good way to get both. So say I go through with a MD/PhD program could I still be a dermatologist or surgeon if I wanted? Any help would be great!

If I were you, I'd take 1-2 years off after college to work in the lab full time. If you end up really liking it, I'd go for the MD-PhD program.