Is Medical School Missing the Mark? Why New Doctors Feel Unprepared for Real-World Practice
Is Medical School Missing the Mark? Why New Doctors Feel Unprepared for Real-World Practice
Despite years of rigorous training, many new physicians step into the real world feeling unprepared—and it begs the question: Is medical school missing the mark? While med school covers anatomy, pharmacology, and complex diagnostics, it often falls short in preparing future doctors for the everyday realities of practicing medicine: running a business, negotiating contracts, leading teams, and keeping up with tech advancements like AI.
In a recent feature by Becker’s Leadership, physicians from various specialties—including internal medicine, family medicine, podiatry, and ophthalmology—shared what they wish they’d learned earlier. Across the board, the gaps were clear.
Here’s what most agreed should be part of the modern medical curriculum:
AI Literacy: The future of diagnosis is digital. Knowing how to work alongside AI to create differential diagnoses isn’t just a tech skill—it’s the new clinical norm.
Business Fundamentals: Doctors are often expected to run practices without any training in budgeting, staffing, or revenue cycles. Understanding how to start and sustain a practice is essential.
Leadership & Communication: Managing teams and engaging in patient-centered care requires more than just medical knowledge—it demands soft skills and strategic thinking.
Contract Literacy: Employment contracts can be legally binding agreements with long-term consequences. Yet, many physicians sign away rights without understanding the fine print.
So, is medical school missing the mark? If we want to retain talented professionals and avoid early burnout, the answer is yes. Expanding the curriculum to include real-world, nonclinical skills is no longer optional—it’s a necessity.
Physicians shouldn’t have to figure out these critical components through trial and error. A more well-rounded education could empower the next generation of doctors to thrive both clinically and professionally.
Was your training missing these pieces too? Let us know in the comments.
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