Doctors play an important role in promoting and maintaining the health and well-being of their patients through a combination of medical knowledge, clinical skills, and empathy. Becoming a doctor is a noble and rewarding pursuit, offering the opportunity to make a significant impact on people's lives.
It requires dedication, hard work, and a genuine passion for healing and helping others. The educational journey is demanding but ultimately rewarding, as it opens the doors to a fulfilling career in the medical field.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to become a doctor:
Obtain a Bachelor's Degree
The first step on your journey is to complete a Bachelor's degree.
To practise as a doctor in South Africa, you must obtain a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) degree. This degree typically takes six years to complete.
These programs are offered by various universities across the country and usually take around six years to complete.
Meet Admission Requirements
Admission into an MBChB program and many other medical fields is competitive.
To be eligible for the MBChB program, you must pass Grade 12, and your subjects must include English, Mathematics, Physics/Chemistry, and Life Science. Most universities prioritise applicants with an academic average ranging from 75% and above in Grade 12.
Additionally, universities may consider your performance in the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) and your overall Grade 12 results.
Complete the MBChB Program
During the MBChB program, you will delve into various medical subjects, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical skills.
This curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in medical knowledge and hands-on experience.
Clinical rotations in hospitals and clinics will allow you to apply theoretical knowledge to real patient care.
Internship and Community Service
After obtaining the MBChB degree, the next step is to undergo a period of internship and community service. The internship period lasts for two years and provides practical training in various medical departments.
During this time, you will rotate through different departments and hospitals to gain experience and determine your areas of interest for specialisation. Throughout the internship, you will be assessed by different departments in the hospital. If you successfully complete the internship and receive certification as a safe doctor, you can proceed to the next phase.
Following the internship, you are required to complete one year of community service. This service is primarily focused on rural areas in South Africa and aims to provide healthcare support to underserved communities.
The location for your community service placement will depend on various factors, including your preferences, medical needs, and demand for doctors in specific areas.
Register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)
To practice medicine legally in South Africa, you must register with the HPCSA.
This registration confirms that you have met the necessary educational and training requirements to provide medical care to patients.
Choose a Specialization
With a solid foundation and practical experience, you can choose to specialize in a specific field of medicine.
Specializations range from pediatrics to surgery, radiology to psychiatry.
To specialize, you will need to complete a residency program, which can take several years, depending on the chosen field.
Obtain Specialist Registration
After completing your residency and meeting all requirements in your chosen specialty, you will need to apply for specialist registration with the HPCSA.
This registration allows you to officially practice as a specialist in your chosen field.
Lifelong Learning and Continuing Professional Development
Becoming a doctor is just the beginning of a lifelong learning journey. It is essential to engage in continuous professional development to stay updated with advancements in medical knowledge and practices. Participate in workshops, conferences, and pursue further specialisation or postgraduate degrees to enhance your skills and expertise.
Becoming a doctor in the country requires dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to lifelong learning. By completing your medical degree, undertaking internship and community service, and obtaining a medical licence, you can embark on a fulfilling career as a doctor.
