The traditional trajectory of medicine was to graduate, go into residency, select a specialty, and practice medicine for the rest of your life. Today, that definition is changing.
Doctors are increasingly adopting a portfolio career, which involves having multiple careers. They do not pursue a single career path, but rather a career path that incorporates several interests and skills.
A portfolio career can encompass clinical, medical writing, clinical research, digital health, healthcare consulting, public health, medical education, entrepreneurship, and artificial intelligence. Rather than stepping away from medicine, these professionals are expanding its boundaries.
This change is due to several reasons. The opportunities that were not available a decade ago are now available due to burnout, changing career goals, technology, and the need for medical skills outside of the hospital. Doctors are becoming more sought after by healthcare startups, pharmaceutical companies, health-tech companies, and educational platforms to help them do more than just treat patients.
Portfolio careers also promote lifelong learning. They enable physicians to pursue new interests, build communication, leadership, business, or technology skills, and build a more flexible and rewarding career.
There are of course challenges to balancing multiple roles. It takes time management, flexibility and a desire to continue learning. For many, however, the benefits are greater than the challenges.
Medicine is no longer confined to the walls of a hospital. Today’s physicians can cure patients, influence healthcare policy, teach the next generation of doctors, innovate, or enhance healthcare through technology all in the same profession.
Would you take a traditional medical career or a portfolio career that incorporates your other interests?
MBH/PS