The Less Traveled Road to Medical School

This morning, I had a conversation with a graduate of a well-known, prestigious liberal arts college who is interested in "applying to a medical school that offers an MD/MBA dual degree". Here's how it went:

1. When I asked her why, she said because she wasn't sure she wanted to practice medicine her entire career and, even though she didn't know what she didn't know about the business of medicine and science, she wanted to leave her options open.

2. When I asked her whether her attitude reflected that of her friends, she said, "No. Most just jump through the hoops to get in and don't tell admissions committees they are interested in bioentrepreneurship rather than clinical medicine."

3. She asked me how to get a research rotation. When I asked her why she wanted to do that, she indicated because ticking off that box would hopefully make her a more competitive applicant. I told her to consider doing an internship with a start up, hopefully one that had nothing to do with science or medicine, since sick care won't be cured from inside and we'll need as much help from outside as possible.

4. I told her to take a gap year between college and medical school to get her head straight, acknowledging that the resume gap might be a mark against her.

5. I told her that more than half of medical schools now offer combined MD/MBA degrees, but that they might be worthless for some physician entrepreneurs.

6. I told her that she should begin to build a portfolio career i.e. building on simultaneous interests as time, money and energy would allow.

7. I told her that if she was accepted to medical school and residency, that she would be tied to that jealous mistress for at least 8 years and have time for little else.

8. I told her to innovate, but to keep it a secret.

9. I told her to network, network, network with those interested in bioentrepreneurship and digital health

10. I told her that her parents might not be happy with all this.

People often avoid taking the "road less traveled" for several reasons, including:

1. Fear of the Unknown: The road less traveled is often associated with uncertainty, unpredictability, and risk. People naturally prefer comfort and familiarity, so they might hesitate to step into uncharted territory, even if it promises growth or fulfillment.
2. Social Pressure and Conformity: Society tends to reward conventional paths, such as traditional careers or lifestyles. The fear of being judged or feeling isolated can make individuals gravitate toward the more familiar or expected route, as it offers social validation and security.
3. Comfort and Convenience: Taking the well-established path is often easier and less complicated. People are more likely to choose what is convenient, as it requires less effort, planning, or sacrifice. The road less traveled can demand more time, resources, and energy, which many might be unwilling to invest.
4. Perceived Risk: The less traveled path can seem like it offers more failure or danger, while the established path seems like a safer bet. People are often wired to minimize risk, and stepping out of the comfort zone may feel like a gamble.
5. Lack of Confidence: Taking the road less traveled often requires a sense of self-assurance and the belief that one can succeed, despite the challenges. Without confidence in their abilities or their decision-making, many may stick to safer options.
6. Short-Term Rewards vs. Long-Term Gains: The road less traveled might promise personal fulfillment, creativity, or long-term success, but it often doesn’t offer immediate rewards. People might prioritize short-term comfort and stability over long-term goals that require perseverance.
7. Cultural Expectations: Cultural norms can heavily influence choices. In some cultures, deviation from the expected path can be seen as rebellious or even irresponsible, leading people to follow well-trodden paths to align with family or community values.

In essence, while the road less traveled can offer growth and unique experiences, the comfort, safety, and social acceptance of the more conventional path can make it a more appealing option for many.

The system is gradually showing cracks. Some schools are choosing the best athlete instead of recruiting for skill positions in the lineup and making accommodations to suit the next generation of doctors. I sure hope it happens soon and so do a lot of boomers signing up for Medicare.

Arlen Meyers, MD, MBA is the, President and CEO of the Society of Physician Entrepreneurs on Substack