- Joined
- Aug 2, 2014
- Messages
- 312
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- 206
Good points, as long as your patients respect and value your care that’s all that matters at the end of the day. What I intended to say was that society as a whole doesn’t always see it that way and that’s the reality. Some people do some people don’t. That’s been my experience at least. The money definitely is better than majority of jobs in the country and will provide you a comfortable living. But in my opinion if someone is going into it JUST for the money and doctor title, they should look into medicine or dentistry.
I agree that those whose only goal is to make as much money as possible would do well to avoid the healthcare field. However, money is an important aspect of any career decision. The real point I wanted to make about money is to refute comments I've read in the past such as "I don't care about the money because I love every aspect of Optometry and it's my passion." While passion and interest are good, that's a terrible attitude. I would not have pursued this career if I didn't think it would provide a comfortable situation for my family. On the other side of the spectrum, "Optometry sucks because Dentists make more" is equally idiotic. I could never do what Dentists do all day, ergo I am not a Dentist. Many feel that way about Optometry as well, and see it as boring and repetitive. That's fine.
I really think the perceived "doctor title" problem surfaces when there is perceived inferiority in the mind of someone who wants to feel as though they are as prestigious and important as the most accomplished surgeon. If your level of self respect or perceived respect from others (which can certainly affect the former) is based on time spent in school, or ability to perform surgery, then you will probably feel empty in this profession. If you take pride in your abilities, and the affect you can have on someone's life then it's a good road. I'm only one person in one part of the country, and I'm aware there must be external reasons to feel inferior to other professionals. Doctors of all kind are human beings and some are unpleasant. In the political world I think this matters more. Luckily, in clinical practice the chances are more in favor of having positive interprofessional relationships. Most of the put-downs toward other professions I've seen here come slinging from the mouths of pre-meds, pre-opts, pre-dents, etc. and the imaginary hierarchy gets amplified by those who want to reaffirm that they are on the path to self-fulfillment.
Sorry that was long winded, and thanks for clarifying your comments, I hope you don't feel like I'm attacking you in any way. Good luck in your studies.