Parents dream of their children becoming doctors but medical school can keep many individuals from ever realizing that possibility. Medical school is extremely rigorous and financial constraints compound the problem, keeping many would-be doctors from ever earning their degree. It’s a shame because the demand for doctors continues to rise. As the American population ages, more and more people are seeking medical attention and the wait times just keep getting longer.

One option, often overlooked, is a military career in the medical field. Joining the Army has many other advantages, but a free college education is certainly one of the best benefits. The Army trains people every year to be doctors, nurses, radiologists, x-ray technicians, pharmacists, physician’s assistants and even veterinarians.

The Army Pays For Your Education

When you join the Army, you are given the opportunity to be assessed for a variety of career options, including the medical field. Once you have demonstrated the prerequisite ability to learn the material, the Army sends you to medical school in exchange for an agreement to stay with the Army for a specified period of time.

Not only does the Army pay for your tuition, but you are also reimbursed for textbooks, school supplies, lab fees and everything else connected to your medical education. While you are studying for your medical degree, the military pays you a salary and provides full benefits and housing. You really can’t ask for anything better than that.

An Aging Population Requires More Doctors

As the American population gets older, the demand for doctors continues to increase. Medical research has become so in-depth that most medical personnel end up specializing in areas of their interest: cardiology, infectious diseases, sports medicine, OB-GYN, geriatrics, surgery…the list is pretty much endless.

Doctors do not get laid off when the economy is bad. People still get sick and hurt and require medical attention. Professional athletes continue to play and get hurt, requiring sports medicine and physical therapy specialists. Many large corporations are required to provide medical insurance to their employees, guaranteeing that medical services will still covered. Once you obtain your medical degree, there is nowhere on earth you will go where your services won’t be in high demand.

Bountiful Benefits For You And Your Family

Most employees, when they start in a new job, are forced to go without benefits and must live on a very small salary. As a member of the U.S. Army, you are given housing, utilities, full medical, dental and vision care for you and your family, a salary and a retirement plan in addition to your free education.

Anyone looking for a career in the medical field would be wise to contact their Army recruiter to discuss the possibilities. Assessment tests will determine if you have what it takes to succeed in a medical career. Imagine the pride of your parents and grandparents when they attend your graduation from medical school.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in the Army, click HERE to learn more.

Photo courtesy of Army.mil