KevinMD April 27, 2024
In writing and teaching about physician careers, I’ve explored themes like job satisfaction, burnout, professional development, and well-being. A recurring phrase that arises in conversations, at conferences, and in online forums is the so-called “rat race” of medical practice.
“I need to find a way out of this rat race.”
“This rat race wasn’t what I signed up for when I chose medicine.”
“I’m tired of the rat race and need to find a way out.”
You get the idea.
I encounter the term “rat race” far too frequently. Let’s talk about why this phrase gets used so often and what we can do about it, with a focus on my favorite topic — unconventional and nonclinical careers for physicians!
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