Is Medical Education Ready for Generation Z?

Abstract

Sig is a 21-year-old who is considering medical school. Accustomed to hard work, he has received all As in college, while majoring in computer engineering. Sig longs to do something meaningful—to make a difference in the lives of others. He feels paralyzed with self-doubt about incurring massive debt associated with medical school. He also dislikes the idea of taking courses that don't seem relevant. Four years of medical school seems like an eternity, and then there is residency. Sig has never faced such a hard decision. It is disrupting his sleep. On one hand, he could make a good living with his bachelor's degree, but will the job be satisfying? On the other hand, he can commit to 7 or more years of medical education, with more debt, but potentially more enjoyable work. Sig has also heard a lot about dissatisfaction and burnout among physicians. Sig talks with his parents, whose advice he values. He will take some time off to make the best decision. He is in no hurry.