Medicine

How do I get into medical school?

In Ghana, most medical schools set their admission cut-off points at either 06 or 07. Specifically, the University of Cape Coast (UCC) typically requires a score of 07 for admission. While I’m not aware of the specific requirements for other medical schools, I’ll focus on UCC's process.

Traditionally, UCC's admission was based solely on interviews. If you applied and met the required cut-off score (06 or 07), you will be invited for an interview. However, changes have been made to the admission process for students entering Level 100. Now, applicants must first pass a written exam as an initial screening step to reduce the number of candidates before moving to the interview phase.

The pass mark for this written exam may vary each year, depending on factors like the number of applicants and the school's requirements. Based on the exam results, UCC selects a specific number of candidates to advance to the interview phase.

Ultimately, UCC communicates admission decisions to applicants via SMS, informing them whether they have been accepted.

In Ghana, medical school admissions generally depend on West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results. For medicine, the focus is on core subjects like English, Mathematics, and Integrated Science. Additionally, three elective subjects from the WASSCE results are used to calculate the final admission score.

It’s worth noting that subjects like Social Studies hold less weight in medicine admissions compared to the core subjects and relevant electives. The combined scores from these selected subjects determine whether an applicant meets the required cut-off score of 06 or 07 for admission into medical programs.

Please keep in mind that admission criteria may vary among medical schools, so it’s important to check the specific requirements of the school you're interested in.

What is the medical school interview like?

For the UCC medical school interview, it’s essential to prepare for a variety of questions. The interview panel often asks questions related to the subjects you studied in Senior High School (SHS) as well as general knowledge topics. Additionally, the panel might inquire about your thoughts and opinions on current events, both locally and globally.

The interview isn’t strictly focused on one specific area or topic; rather, it’s a broad assessment of your knowledge, critical thinking skills, and awareness of current affairs. Therefore, if you have the opportunity to attend the UCC medical school interview, it’s wise to review your SHS subjects, particularly chemistry. Having some knowledge about UCC’s medical program and the university itself can also be beneficial. Staying informed about national and international events will help you engage in discussions during the interview.

The UCC medical school interview is less rigid than you might expect and isn't limited to specific topics. Instead, it aims to evaluate your well-roundedness, critical thinking, and general awareness. Keeping an open mind and being prepared for a wide range of questions is key.

During the interview, the panel might ask about general topics or current events, encouraging applicants to stay engaged with the world beyond academics. Additionally, they may ask about how you plan to manage stress during medical school. Overall, the interview focuses on your well-roundedness and awareness, making it challenging to pinpoint specific areas to study. Instead, being informed about current events, understanding key concepts, and articulating your thoughts are crucial for success.

What is the medical school system like: do they write end-of-semester exams?

Medical schools in Ghana have unique approaches to medical education. For instance, institutions like KNUST (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology) follow a general system where students take courses each semester and conclude with end-of-semester exams. UDS (University for Development Studies) may have a similar approach, though details can vary across institutions.

At UCC, they employ a modular system for medical education. For example, students may focus on the digestive system for 3 to 4 weeks, covering anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, histology, and embryology related to that system. This in-depth study is referred to as "Module 1" during the pre-clinical years, typically spanning the first to third year.

After completing a module, students take an exam before moving on to the next system. This modular approach is the hallmark of UCC’s medical education.

Upon reaching the third year, students participate in the "white coat ceremony," marking their transition to the clinical years, which span from Level 400 to Level 600. During these clinical years, students apply the practical aspects of what they learned in the pre-clinical years. For instance, in the case of the digestive system, they study its surgical, internal medicine, and pharmacology aspects. This practical training includes diagnosing patients with digestive system disorders, conducting investigations, and developing treatment plans.

In summary, UCC's medical program follows a modular system during the pre-clinical years, allowing for deep exploration of specific body systems, which are then applied during the clinical years.

Tell me something cool about medical school!

In addition to the modular system, UCC's medical program incorporates Problem-Based Learning (PBL). PBL involves presenting students with real-world scenarios related to the specific module they are studying.

For instance, if students are focusing on the cardiovascular system, they will receive case scenarios related to the heart and blood vessels. The class is then divided into PBL groups, and during each session, a facilitator (usually a lecturer) guides the discussion. However, the facilitator takes a more passive role, allowing students to lead the conversation, analyze the problem, and explore potential solutions and management strategies.

In essence, PBL is an integral part of the UCC curriculum, allowing students to apply their knowledge in practical, problem-solving contexts, enhancing their understanding of the subjects they are studying.

What are the job opportunities in medicine?

Medical school offers a range of career paths beyond becoming a medical doctor. Graduates generally have three primary options: practicing medicine, pursuing research, or entering academia.

Medical practitioners can specialize in fields like cardiovascular medicine, offering specialized care to patients. In research, graduates can focus on specific areas, and their medical background can give them an edge when applying for research grants. For those interested in academia, they can become lecturers, imparting their knowledge to future medical professionals.

Upon completing medical school, aspiring doctors typically follow a clear path. After a three-month break following graduation, they begin a two-year "house job," similar to a national service program. Following this, they can continue working as Medical Officers (MOs). Those interested in specialization can take specialized exams, known as "primaries," and progress through various stages—house officer, resident, and senior resident—before becoming specialists.

For those inclined towards academia, pursuing additional qualifications such as a master's or PhD allows for deeper specialization. Many professors were once practicing medical doctors who advanced their education while also engaging in research and teaching.

In short, the field of medicine provides numerous career opportunities, allowing individuals to choose their path, be it practicing medicine, conducting research, or pursuing academia. Your career options in medicine are broad and flexible, allowing you to tailor your path to your interests.

Additionally, a medical degree doesn’t limit your career options to just the medical field. Many doctors also run businesses or explore other pursuits. For example, in the "Thinking Outside the Books" program, doctors who have branched out into other fields will share their experiences. Ultimately, the path you choose depends on your interests and capabilities.

Can I use a degree in another program to get into medical school?

Medical schools in Ghana now offer a graduate entry program for individuals who have already completed degrees in science-related fields such as biochemistry, optometry, pharmacy, or medical laboratory sciences. These students undergo a 4½-year program that starts midway through Level 200 and ends at Level 600.

Graduate entry students join regular students, who enter medical school directly from Senior High School (SHS) and start at Level 100. Medical schools have specific admission targets each year, accommodating both regular and graduate entry students.

The selection process after exams and interviews can be somewhat subjective, with impressions made during the interview stage playing a significant role. The exact criteria for choosing students may vary from year to year and depend on the panel conducting the interviews.

In summary, Ghanaian medical schools offer various entry pathways, and the selection process, particularly for graduate entry students, combines objective factors (such as exam results) and subjective factors (like performance during interviews).

What happens if a medical student fails an exam?

At UCC, the medical school follows a modular system, where exams are taken after each module. If a student fails an exam, they have two opportunities to retake it. If they fail the first re-sit, they get a second chance. However, failing the second re-sit results in repeating the entire year.

While students can repeat a year due to failing multiple attempts, it’s rare. There are rumors that failing more than three times may lead to dismissal, but this hasn't been widely confirmed.

What are the various stages in the medical profession?

In medicine, different titles are assigned to professionals as they progress through their careers. While in medical school, students are called "medical students." Upon completing their education, they enter two years called the "house job" (similar to national service), during which they are known as "house officers."

After completing the house job, they become "medical officers" (MOs). If they choose to specialize further, they enter residency, progressing from junior resident to senior resident. Ultimately, those who achieve expertise in their field may become specialists or consultants. Despite the various titles, all professionals in medicine are addressed as "doctor." These titles simply help distinguish different levels and areas of expertise within the medical field.

Do I have to specialize as a doctor?

In the field of medicine, new specialties are constantly emerging, offering diverse career options. For example, vascular surgery focuses on blood vessels, while there are many other specialties related to different parts of the body.

You have the freedom to choose whether to specialize in a particular area or to become a general practitioner. After completing your medical education and training, your career path will depend on your interests and goals. Medicine offers numerous opportunities, allowing you to follow the direction that aligns with your passions.

Are doctors of pharmacy doctors?

Yes, doctors of pharmacy (also known as pharmaceutical doctors or doctor pharmacists) are indeed recognized as doctors, though they are not medical doctors. They complete a rigorous education and training program, typically lasting six years, culminating in a doctorate. Their expertise lies in pharmacy and the development of medications, which earns them the title of "doctor" due to their advanced education and qualifications in the field.

Medical doctors and pharmacists often collaborate in pharmaceuticals, especially in the development and production of medications. This area of work offers a synergy between medical professionals and pharmaceutical experts.

What is the salary of a doctor?

In Ghana, a doctor's salary varies based on their level of seniority, similar to other professions. After completing medical school, new doctors begin as house officers for two years, akin to national service. Salaries for house officers generally range between 3,000 and 5,000 Ghana cedis per month, although this may vary.

It's important to note that entering the medical profession solely for financial gain may lead to dissatisfaction. However, as doctors progress in their careers, their salaries naturally increase, much like in other professions.

Beyond patient care, doctors are responsible for diagnosing and treating patients, performing surgeries, and sometimes managing healthcare facilities. Their contributions extend to both patient care and the efficient functioning of the healthcare system.