Should I study towards a MD/PhD in light of advances in AI/robotics/automation?
I'm considering becoming a radiation oncologist. Specifically, I would like to do a BSc in Electrical Engineering plus pre-med, followed by a joint MD/PhD (EE) degree. A BSc takes four years, and MD/PhD programs take an average of 7-8 years. On top of that there is a one year internship and a residency requirement of at least five years. All in all, it would take me 18 years to get to my dream job; even if I did away with the PhD and only went for a regular MD, it would still take 14 years to become an oncologist.
My question is twofold:
(1) Will AI/robotics/automation have made most health care jobs redundant (or at least reduced their financial viability) by then, making such an investment (nearly two decades of opportunity cost) futile?
(2) Provided physicians are still needed in the future, is it at all possible to start a healthcare technology company on the side to make use of my technical knowledge while working as a doctor part-time? Would hospitals or private practices be prepared to accommodate me? Would it be financially feasible?
My question is twofold:
(1) Will AI/robotics/automation have made most health care jobs redundant (or at least reduced their financial viability) by then, making such an investment (nearly two decades of opportunity cost) futile?
(2) Provided physicians are still needed in the future, is it at all possible to start a healthcare technology company on the side to make use of my technical knowledge while working as a doctor part-time? Would hospitals or private practices be prepared to accommodate me? Would it be financially feasible?
Thank you.