Civilian vs military employment. Most med students and doctors work at hospitals in the civilian sector. Does anyone here have experience or knowledge on working as a military contractor or active duty in the medical field? I would love to hear some insight on what it’s like and how it compares. Thanks!
I'm not sure how it works as a civilian contractor, but I have an uncle who went into army as a med student. They paid all his school and he received housing and living allowance. For every year of school and residency he owed one year of active duty to the army as a doc. He's an OB/GYN. I know he and his wife love it. They have no debt, he still makes a handsome pay, has almost no cost of living anywhere, no malpractice insurance to pay, 30 days paid vacation a year, and the option to move anywhere the army has a hospital every two years or so. He originally planned to just do his time and get out and into private practice asap, but he just loves it. And he can retire in a few years with full military benefits then go into private practice or stay on for longer.
I’m only a one year veteran from active duty (enlisted). I got out bc I wanted a degree and some freedom. I decided if I’m still single when I get my med degree I’m going back in as an officer. You go in the med field in the military you will treated a lot better, but also challenged. In the navy the corpsman literally go have some Motrin, drink some water, and get rest. Welllll.... that’s not always the case as we know. A very young Sailor died of a heart attack bc she only felt nauseas. Drs are challenged in the navy bc one sailors will try and get out of the military so it’s hard to believe them. But if you go in army or air force wise or on the expeditionary side of the navy (helping marines) you won’t regret it! Start making connections now so you can start getting your name out there to submit your package. Walk into a recruiting office and TELL them you want to be an officer bc of your degree. They’ll try to persuade you into (enlisted) don’t let them. You worked your ass off for this degree and if it’s you’re true passion to help active duty members/vets go for it and don’t take no for an answer. The key to becoming an officer is to keep submitting your package to get your name out there so they see that you don’t give up. Good luck!
