After years of rigorous coursework, countless exams, and sleepless nights, you've finally completed medical school. As you stand at the threshold of your medical career, you might be wondering, "What comes after medical school?" Let’s explore available post-medical school pathways so that you can make an informed decision. Find out how you can make the most of your medical degree.
What to do after medical school before residency? Available options
What comes after medical school? If you want to use this time to gain the necessary medical experience, there are a few options and career paths you can try:
- Medical scribes — such professionals who work alongside physicians, helping with documentation and administrative tasks. Their role allows doctors to focus on patient care, and it provides scribes with invaluable insights into medical practice. This position not only offers financial stability but also enhances your understanding of clinical workflows, medical terminology, and the patient experience. Additionally, it can make your transition into residency smoother, as you'll be well-versed in the documentation process.
- Veterinary scribes — this role involves working alongside veterinarians, assisting with record-keeping, administrative tasks, and other responsibilities similar to medical scribes but in the context of veterinary medicine. Such experience is particularly valuable if you are considering a career in veterinary medicine or if you want to diversify your skill set.
- Care navigators — what do you do after med school? If you want to try different careers, you can also become a care navigator and help individuals understand their treatment plans, coordinate appointments, and ensure that patients receive comprehensive and timely care. By working as a care navigator, you not only gain valuable experience in patient advocacy and healthcare coordination but also develop interpersonal skills that are essential for effective communication with patients, their families, and various healthcare professionals.
What to do in summer after the first year of medical school?
If you're looking for ways to make the most of your summers during medical school, consider gaining experience that can benefit you in your post-graduation journey. So, what to do in the summer after first year medical school?
- Internships and research — engaging in clinical research or hospital internships can help you build a strong foundation for your residency and beyond.
- Residency prep courses — consider enrolling in residency prep courses that are designed to sharpen your clinical skills, improve your medical knowledge, and boost your confidence before entering the challenging world of residency.
- Voluntary services — participating in medical missions or volunteering in underserved communities can provide you with hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of healthcare challenges outside of a traditional clinical setting.
The takeaway
What comes after medical school? As you embark on your journey after medical school, the possibilities are vast, from becoming a medical scribe to volunteering.
Each pathway offers unique benefits, allowing you to tailor your post-graduation experience to your individual goals and interests. Remember that the choices you make today will shape your future in healthcare, so make the most of this exciting phase in your career.
Did you like this article? You may also read: What is direct patient care, and does medical scribe count?
