Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 10/13/2010

Question
Hello, my name is Kapresha. Ive read several blogs concerning how old is too old to become a MD. Im currently 36yrs and im pursuing a career in medicine. I know that some may think at this age its too old to try to pursue such a career but I totally disagree for several reasons, but I do want your honest opinion. When I graduated from high school I didnt go right into college, I served in the US Army. After that I decided to become a parent and I fully committed to that. Now im at the age where I can actually commit to something that Ive always wanted to do. I understand the rigors of becoming a MD and I feel that I have the maturity and life skills to succeed. The way I look at it is, its going to take around 12 years to complete my education and im planning on being around for the next 12 years irregardless to rather or not I attend school, so why not spend these next years setting up the rest of my life? Our generation is different and i will have respect for young Drs, but I will also respect the knowledge and WISDOM of an mature DR as well! I just would like to know why people feel like becoming a DR in your late 30's or 40's for that matter is almost impossible or not worth working for? I do hope to hear from you and like I said earlier I value your opinion. Thank you much!

Answer
You have a tough road ahead of you but I applaud you for your determination. I know of several people who started medical school in their 40's but it is rare. Aside from the problems of the usual competition to get into medical school and residency, the other problem that comes in is that, when you graduate residency in 2023, you will be 49 or 50. As an employer, I have to think how long you are likely to work for me and would I rather have a young, energetic partner (who wants to work long hours to make more money) versus somebody who is already settled in and wants to work normal hours. And this is true not just for new grads at that age but also established docs at that age who are looking to switch jobs. Also, in that context, if I have the opportunity to hire a new grad at 50 versus a 50 yr old with 15 yrs of experience, who am I likely to take?

Now with all that being said, I am not discouraging you from following your dream. While the scenario I painted above is certainly possible, it is not guaranteed, and you may find a perfect fit for you. If medicine is your dream, you might also consider a shorter path by going into nursing (and then onto becoming a CRNA).

Good Luck,

Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston