Ikaneng Yingwane, fourth year medical student, gives an insight into the journey of becoming a doctor - and how there's more to a career than financial benefits alone.

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Medicine is frequently regarded as a noble profession dedicated to healing, comforting, and saving lives. However, among the numerous reasons that motivate people to pursue a profession in medicine, financial considerations undoubtedly play a considerable role.

Medicine is traditionally seen as a well-paid career. Salaryexplorer.com (a salary comparison and career resources website for both employees and employers) published a list of the 10 highest-paying jobs in South Africa for 2024 in which the highest-paying profession was surgery/medicine. The financial allure is certainly compelling!

However, focusing only on money to become a doctor might have mixed results. The arduous nature of medical school and practice necessitates a deep commitment that transcends financial considerations. Individuals who are motivated only by money may find it difficult to reconcile the realities of the long hours, high stress, and emotional strain of medical school or the job with their aspirations. Furthermore, prioritising financial gain might lead to burnout and job unhappiness. Medical professionals who enter the field only for the sake of earning riches may struggle with the profession's inherent problems, such as dealing with difficult patients, treating patients as people and not merely diseased bodies, bearing the emotional weight of medical responsibilities, and following through the ethical responsibilities every doctor has to each of their patients.

A career in medicine requires a deep commitment to patient care. If you are investing in a medical career only focusing on a big return in the future, you better throw in an investment in good insurance too! The numerous complaints and malpractice claims that are now commonplace in the medical profession can end your career quicker than it took for you to even start working. For someone only interested in money it can be difficult to come to terms with the fact that patients are not merely diseased bodies that are just medicated and sent away. The essential core of medicine is the holistic care and empathy delivered, which necessitates a strong relationship with patients and a genuine concern for their well-being. Without this inner desire, the emotional and intellectual demands of the career can become overpowering, outweighing any financial gains.

While the possibility of earning large sums of money can be a strong incentive to pursue a career in medicine, it shouldn't be the only one. The journey to become a doctor is fraught with difficulties and requirements, and pursuing financial gain on its own might not be compatible with the needs of the field. To make an informed and satisfying career decision, a more comprehensive strategy that takes into account intrinsic motives, personal beliefs, and long-term job satisfaction is essential. In the end, a prosperous and fulfilling career in medicine is frequently defined by a blend of sound financial management, a strong sense of purpose, and a dedication to patient care.

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