Medical School Applications Dropping
Jan.–Feb. 2001
For the third straight year, the number of medical school applicants has dropped. Massive debt following medical school and uncertainty about managed care are a few factors believed to be contributing to the decline.
Medical students can expect to accrue approximately $90,000 in debt from loans, which can be a hardship to those either starting or joining a practice. And, managed care has been a source of concern for doctors who believe they have lost decision-making authority and have less job satisfaction. Some physicians may advise potential applicants against a career in medicine by saying that they themselves wouldn’t have become physicians if they had to do it all over again. A strong economy may also have an impact as it offers other professional alternatives to careers in medicine.
Source: “Med School Downer,” Modern Healthcare, September 11, 2000
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