Career path ahead

Was reading the latest issue of SMA on this remarkably courageous surgical reg turn PGY1 cos she wanted to pursue her passion. As she describes just how tough and humbling it is to be considered an MO or extremely junior doctor when she is actually so much more competent, and her courage to persevere on this goal and path despite all the challenges, I am brought back to the point of considering whether to sign on to residency.

I have heard so much about the residency programme. Deep inside, I still frown upon it as it is an unfair and unjust system, causing so much segregation and resentment within the medical community. It protects those within it and ostracizes those that are not. Non residents have to bear more unearthly working hours, have less opportunity to receive training, get less benefits (cos we have an employer who simply doesn't care for our welfare). It creates a facade that those not in the residency are sub-standard doctors, non specialist... I too have been a victim of this system, simply because I want to be a better doctor by spending some time to explore my interest and strengths, choosing a specialty where I can be the greatest blessing to others. Many of my peers too have been penalised for not joining the residency programme for reasons that I feel are more courageous and righteous.

Yet, I do not deny that the residency programme has it's pros. Having a structured programme integrating work and training with the relevant specialty posstings is a beautiful combination for many trainees. It would certainly enhance my knowledge, skill and experience. However, having spoken to friends in the programme, they have shared the many challenges eg constant change of postings, being seen as second class citizen in the non related specialties etc.

Residency or not? I guess the bigger question to ask is what God wants to do with my life? What do I envision His calling for me will be and where does my burden and passion lie. Having gone through 3 years of clinical practice, I have found my passion to be in chronic and community care...and also in teaching. As such, it seems like family medicine is the best way forward