Becoming a doctor is a highly rewarding and fulfilling career choice for medical graduates. Embarking on becoming a doctor requires a comprehensive understanding of the steps involved. In this article, we will explore the process of becoming a doctor, from understanding the role of a doctor to the specialized fields within medicine.

What Is a Doctor?

A doctor is a licensed medical professional qualified to diagnose and treat various health conditions. They utilize diagnostic tests to identify their patients' ailments and provide suitable treatments. Doctors can work within healthcare institutions or establish independent clinics. Specializing in different medical fields equips them with specific skills to effectively treat their patients.

Let's delve into some specialized fields within the medical profession:

General Physician

A general physician ensures the physical and mental well-being of their patients. They address medical conditions such as fevers, common colds, and physical pain. General physicians also refer to specialists with expertise in treating specific conditions. Often, they are the first point of contact for health queries, offering guidance to individuals and families.

Paediatrician

A paediatrician specializes in providing medical care to children. Their responsibilities include regular check-ups and appropriate treatments for common childhood issues like colds and coughs. Paediatricians also stay updated with vaccinations required for children at different stages of their development.

Orthopaedic Doctor

Orthopaedic doctors specialize in treating the musculoskeletal system, which comprises bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. They address injuries and diseases affecting this complex framework, ensuring proper movement and functionality of the body.

Surgeon

Surgeons focus on diagnosing, treating, and performing necessary operations and surgeries. Their expertise lies in surgically intervening and resolving medical conditions by making incisions in the human body.

Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists are doctors who specialize in the study of the human brain. They diagnose and treat mental disorders, anomalies, and intelligence-related conditions. Psychiatrists possess the skills to provide effective treatment and medication for various mental health conditions, whether of psychological or physiological origin.

How to Become a Medical Doctor

Now that we have explored the roles of doctors and the specialized fields within medicine let's discuss the steps involved in becoming a medical doctor:

1. Complete Senior Secondary Education

To pursue a quality medical education and embark on the path to becoming a doctor, you must complete your secondary education. Graduating from high school with the required physics, chemistry, and biology marks is essential for admission into MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) programs. Proficiency in these core subjects is crucial to qualify for the medical entrance examination held by the Institute of Medicine (IOM). A strong foundation in these subjects increases your chances of securing a desired rank in the entrance examination and gaining admission to your preferred medical school.

2. Clear the MBBS Entrance Exam

After completing your 12th-grade examinations, you can attend the required entrance exam to secure admission to a medical college. In Nepal, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) is the most popular and widely accepted entrance exam for medical colleges. Other institutions like Kathmandu University (KU) and Purwanchal University (PU), and several others conduct their entrance examinations. Still, students who clear IOM Entrance and meet the quota are eligible for admission to these universities. Admission to the medical college of your choice can be finalized upon payment of the specified fees and submission of the necessary documents.

Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in Nepal

To be eligible for MBBS in Nepal, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Minimum Grades: Candidates should have obtained a minimum of 50% grades in science subjects (physics, chemistry, and zoology/botany) in their qualifying examination from a recognized board. They should also have English as the main subject.

Age Requirement: Candidates must be at least 17 when applying for the MBBS program admission.

Entrance Exam: Candidates must pass the designated entrance exam for MBBS admissions. Students in the reserved category must achieve a minimum grade point average of 40%.

Additional Qualifications: All students must fulfil any additional qualifying requirements specified by the regulatory authorities for MBBS, such as the Nepal Medical Council (NMC) and the respective Institute.

MBBS Admission Process in Nepal

Applying for MBBS in Nepal is a straightforward process. Unlike local students, international students do not need to take entrance exams. Here is a step-by-step guide to the application process:

Visit the official website: Go to the official website of the respective college or university.

Generate a login ID: Create a login ID on the website to access the application form.

Fill out the application form: To avoid disqualification, provide all the necessary information accurately and truthfully.

Attach scanned documents: Carefully attach copies of the required documents as specified in the application.

Double-check and submit: Before submitting, review all the information and attached documents to ensure everything is accurate. Then, apply.

Documents required for MBBS Admission in Nepal

To secure MBBS admission in Nepal, candidates are required to submit the following documents:

• Birth certificate
• 10+2 certificate and mark sheet
• Conduct certificate issued by the head of the Institute last attended
• Nationality certificate (e.g., Aadhar card, Passport, Citizenship or identity card issued by the authorized body)
• Passport size photographs
• NEET Scorecard (for Indian students)
• Eligibility certificate and other relevant certificates
• Migration certificates
• Invitation letter (if applicable)
• Payment slips or proof of fee payment

3. Complete the MBBS Program

After completing 12th grade, you can apply for the MBBS program, which is the first degree in the medical sciences required to become a doctor. While some candidates apply directly after graduation, you can apply for the MBBS program until age 25. Enrolling in medical school within two years of completing your 12th-grade board exams is advisable. The minimum age requirement for admission to the MBBS course is 17 years. The duration of the MBBS program is typically five years and six months.

Upon completing the MBBS degree, you become eligible to practice as a doctor. You also have the option to pursue a specialization in a specific field of medicine to further refine your skills and techniques before entering the job market.

4. Fulfill Internship Requirements

During the MBBS program, candidates are usually required to complete a mandatory internship that spans one year. The internship provides hands-on experience working under the supervision of senior doctors and exposes you to various treatments for different ailments. Successful completion of the internship demonstrates your satisfactory level of knowledge and skills. Some medical colleges have hospital wings where you can complete the internship, while others may require you to intern at designated hospitals.

5. Register with the Medical Council

To practice as a doctor in Nepal, you must register with the medical council. Being registered with a state medical council makes you eligible for registration under the Nepal Medical Council. To achieve eligibility, you must have completed your MBBS degree and internship from an institute recognized by the Medical Council of Nepal. After registering with the Nepal Medical Council, you can embark on your career as a medical practitioner and begin practising medicine in Nepal.

6. Practice as a Doctor

After completing your MBBS degree, you can pursue further education, such as a master's or PhD, to expand your medical knowledge. Many doctors start practising medicine after completing their MBBS and obtaining a master's degree in medical science. When it comes to practice, there are two typical options. You can either work as an employed doctor in a healthcare institution, such as a multi-speciality hospital, establish your clinic or work under the guidance of a senior doctor.

Conclusion

Becoming a doctor is a fulfilling and highly respected career path. The journey begins with a solid educational foundation in the sciences, clearing entrance examinations, completing the MBBS program, fulfilling internship requirements, and registering with the appropriate medical council. With dedication and perseverance, you can embark on a successful career as a doctor, significantly impacting the health and well-being of individuals and communities.