I'm wondering if I should go for a career in medical assisting then try for med. school?

Question

I'm looking for a quick way to pay off a little of my debt but at the same time persue my dream of becoming a doctor.. good idea?

Answer 1

This would allow you to get a low paying health care job, but would not be very beneficial towards a goal of being a physician.  It would be better to work towards a health care service occupation which provides some level of clinical knowledge.  An example would be EMT then possibly Paramedic.  The skills performed by these occupations are more directly clinical as opposed to a medical assistant which performs at a much less involved support level.  In my opinion, except for the ability to have a job, the time spent learning and working as a medical assistant would be mostly a waste of time.  Also, if you have the abilities which would enable you to be a physician, then a medical assistant course and the job would bore you quickly.  Additionally, you can make more money in most cities working at a restaurant.

Answer 2

Medical assisting would also help you decide if this is really the career for you.  I've always heard that doctors when they graduate and do residency always end up with lots of debt to pay off.  It can't hurt that you are paying off credit!

Good luck - we need good medical care all around the world.