Medicine & Health Sciences

The primary difference between MBBS and alternative medical courses like BAMS or BHMS lies in the medical practices and treatment methods they focus on. MBBS is a conventional medical course that trains students in allopathic medicine, emphasizing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases through surgery, medication, and other modern medical techniques. In contrast, BAMS and BHMS focus on alternative medicine; BAMS is centred on Ayurvedic medicine, which uses natural remedies and holistic approaches, while BHMS is based on Homeopathy, using diluted natural substances to stimulate the body's healing processes. The curriculum, treatment modalities, and therapeutic approaches in BAMS and BHMS differ significantly from the scientifically-based practices in MBBS. While MBBS graduates can work as allopathic doctors, BAMS and BHMS graduates specialize in their respective fields of alternative medicine.

After completing an MBBS degree, a graduate can specialize in fields like Cardiology or Neurology by pursuing a PG degree, typically an MD or MS in a related speciality. To begin, the graduate must clear entrance exams like NEET PG in India or equivalent exams in other countries. Once admitted to a PG program, the student undergoes intensive training and education in their chosen speciality. This involves both theoretical coursework and practical experience, including rotations in hospitals and specialised departments. After completing the required residency period, usually lasting 3 years, the graduate earns their specialised degree (e.g., MD in Cardiology or Neurology). Further specialisation can be achieved through fellowships or sub-specialty training in more specific areas of interest within the field.

Practical training and internships play a crucial role in the MBBS curriculum as they bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world medical practice. In the initial years, practical training helps students develop essential skills in anatomy dissections, laboratory work, and clinical examinations. As students progress, they start engaging with patients and learning to diagnose, treat, and manage medical conditions under supervision. The internship year, usually the final phase of MBBS, is vital for refining these skills. It provides hands-on experience in various medical fields, such as surgery, paediatrics, obstetrics, and internal medicine, while fostering a deeper understanding of patient care. This practical exposure ensures that students graduate as competent and confident doctors, ready to handle diverse medical challenges.

The MBBS syllabus is typically divided into three phases over 5.5 years (including a 1-year internship). The structure is as follows:Phase 1 (1st Year): Focuses on Basic Sciences, including Anatomy, Physiology, and Biochemistry. The first year lays the foundation for understanding the human body, its functions, and the biochemical processes essential for medical knowledge.Phase 2 (2nd Year): Concentrates on Pharmacology, Microbiology, Pathology, and Forensic Medicine. Students learn about the action of drugs, microorganisms, disease processes, and medico-legal aspects of medicine.Phase 3 (3rd Year): Includes clinical subjects such as General Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics, and Ophthalmology. Students begin to interact with patients, gaining practical knowledge under supervision.Phase 4 (Internship Year): The final year of MBBS is a mandatory internship where students undergo practical training in various departments, including Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics, Pediatrics, and more. This phase allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real clinical settings.

The minimum qualification required to apply for an MBBS programme typically includes completing Class 12th (or equivalent) with a focus on Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects. Candidates must have secured a minimum percentage (usually around 50% for general category students and 40% for reserved categories) in these subjects. In addition, candidates must be at least 17 years old on or before December 31st of the year of admission. To secure admission, candidates must also qualify for relevant entrance exams like NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) in India or other equivalent exams in different countries.

Core Subjects Studied During the MBBS Program:Anatomy: Study of the structure of the human body, including organs, tissues, and systems.Physiology: Understanding of how the body functions, including cellular and systemic processes.Biochemistry: Study of the chemical processes within and related to living organisms.Pharmacology: Knowledge of drugs, their effects, and therapeutic uses.Microbiology: Study of microorganisms and their role in human diseases.Pathology: Understanding the causes and effects of diseases through tissue analysis.Forensic Medicine: Application of medical knowledge to legal issues, including autopsy and identification.Community Medicine: Public health, epidemiology, and preventive healthcare practices.Surgery: Basic and advanced techniques in treating injuries, diseases, and conditions surgically.Obstetrics and Gynecology: Study of pregnancy, childbirth, and female reproductive health.Dermatology: Medical care of infants, children, and adolescents.Ophthalmology: Study of eye diseases and vision disorders.ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat): Disorders related to the ear, nose, and throat.Orthopedics: Study of musculoskeletal system disorders, including bones and joints.Dermatology: Study of skin-related conditions and diseases.Psychiatry: Mental health, disorders, and treatments.Medicine: General internal medicine covering a wide range of non-surgical medical conditions.

The difficulty of NEET and UPSC varies depending on the individual's strengths and interests. NEET primarily focuses on subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, requiring in-depth knowledge of Science concepts and the ability to solve problems quickly. It is generally considered challenging due to the vast syllabus and intense competition, but it is more straightforward in terms of subject matter compared to UPSC. On the other hand, UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) is a broader and more comprehensive exam that tests knowledge in multiple areas, including General Studies, Current Affairs, and an optional subject. It is often considered more difficult due to its extensive syllabus, analytical nature, and the need for strong writing and decision-making skills. While NEET is more specialised in medical sciences, UPSC demands a well-rounded understanding of diverse topics, making it a more complex and lengthy process overall.

Both a PhD and an MBBS holder can be referred to as 'Doctor', but they have different roles and expertise. An MBBS degree qualifies someone to practice medicine and treat patients as a medical doctor. They diagnose, prescribe treatments, and perform surgeries. On the other hand, a PhD is awarded to individuals who have completed extensive research in a specific field of study, often in Science, Engineering, or Humanities. PhD holders are experts in their research area but do not typically practice medicine or treat patients. While both are doctors in their respective fields, an MBBS doctor is the one who directly works in healthcare to treat and heal patients.