Should Female Doctors Join the Army After MBBS or PG Degree?

For female doctors contemplating a military career, deciding whether to join the army after completing a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) or a Postgraduate (PG) degree in medicine can be a daunting task. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages to assist in making an informed decision.

Joining After MBBS

Advantages

Early Entry and Basic Training

Choosing to join the army immediately after completing MBBS offers numerous benefits:

Early Career Start: You can start your medical career sooner, gaining valuable experience and adapting to military life at an earlier stage. Basic Military Training: undergoing basic training helps in personal development and instilling discipline, essential traits for any military career.

Service Opportunities

There are diverse medical roles within the military, including field duty and specialized units, allowing for early exposure to various medical scenarios.

Disadvantages

Limited Specialization

Port of Entry: As a fresh graduate, you may not have the specialized skills that a PG degree can provide, limiting the scope of your medical practice in the army.

Career Progression

Slower Advancement: Certain roles may have slower advancement opportunities compared to those who have completed a PG degree, potentially impacting your career growth within the military.

Joining After PG

Advantages

Specialized Skills and Knowledge

Completing a PG program before joining the army offers distinct advantages:

Valuable Expertise: You gain specialized knowledge and skills, making you more valuable in the military and able to take on more complex medical responsibilities. Higher Rank Options: A PG degree can lead to entering at a higher rank, providing better opportunities for leadership positions. Broad Roles: This allows for a wider range of medical responsibilities and specialization within the military.

Disadvantages

Delayed Entry

The major drawback is the time it takes to complete a PG degree:

Training and Education Timeline: You will spend additional years in training and education before joining the army, potentially delaying your entry into a medical role.

Potential for Civilian Practice Preferences

Preference for Civilian Practice: Some individuals may find that they prefer the civilian practice after completing their PG degree, leading to a potential mismatch with the army's needs.

Considerations for Decision Making

Several factors should be considered when deciding whether to join the army after completing an MBBS or PG degree:

Career Goals

Reflect on your long-term career goals. If you aim for a specialized medical role, a PG may provide a more advantageous path.

Interest in Military Life

Consider your interest in military life and whether you are prepared for the challenges it entails, ensuring you can commit to the lifestyle and demands of a military career.

Family and Personal Commitments

Evaluate your personal circumstances, including family and other personal commitments, to assess your suitability for a military career.

Conclusion

The final decision should align with your career aspirations, personal circumstances, and readiness for military life. If you prefer the experience of starting your medical career sooner, joining after MBBS might be the way to go. However, if you aim for specialized roles and a higher rank, completing your PG degree first is advisable.