Why do we need Social Studies when I want to be a doctor?
Oh my gosh!
Doctors treat patients of all ethnic backgrounds. They need to understand these backgrounds in order to understand their patients' cultures. They need to understand the physiological differences between the world's people in order to treat their physical ailments. Social studies teaches about the world's diverse peoples.
Doctors prescribe preventive medications for American travelers to exotic foreign location. They need to know the diseases prevalent in different parts of the world. Social studies teaches about the different parts of the world.
Doctors need to know about history to provide the background for medical problems, inventions, and cures. Social studies teaches about history.
Doctors need to understand economics in order to make a living. Social studies teaches about economics.
Doctors are expected to be leaders in their communities. Social studies teaches the information we expect our leaders to know.
Run the other way if you find a doctor who doesn't know the culture, diseases, and location of a place you want to visit. Run the other way if you find a doctor who doesn't understand the history of diseases and that fleas on rats caused the Bubonic plague in medieval times. Run the other way if you find a doctor who is ignorant of social studies.
Social studies is a subject that is important for everyone, regardless of their career aspirations. While it may not seem directly relevant to becoming a doctor, it provides essential knowledge and skills that can complement and enhance your professional development. Here's why:
1. Understanding Society: Social studies helps you understand the society in which you'll be practicing medicine. As a doctor, you will be working with diverse patient populations, each with their own unique cultural, social, and economic backgrounds. Social studies provides valuable insights into various societies, cultures, and global issues, helping you deliver more compassionate and patient-centered care.
2. Ethical Considerations: Medicine is an ethical profession, and social studies helps you develop critical thinking skills to make informed decisions. It exposes you to ethical dilemmas, human rights issues, and the intersection of social justice and health, allowing you to become a more ethically-minded and socially responsible physician.
3. Communication Skills: Social studies emphasizes effective communication, both written and verbal. Being able to communicate clearly and empathetically with patients, colleagues, and healthcare teams is crucial for a doctor. Exploring different aspects of social studies, such as history, geography, and politics, can enhance your communication abilities and help you convey complex medical information in a way that patients can understand.
4. Policy and Public Health: Social studies examines government policies, public health initiatives, and healthcare systems. This knowledge can help you navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, advocate for improved healthcare policies, and make informed decisions that positively impact patient care on broader scales.
While it may not be the primary focus of your medical studies, social studies provides a broader perspective on the world, enriches your understanding of human behavior, and equips you with skills that can enhance your effectiveness as a doctor. It is a valuable part of a well-rounded education for aspiring healthcare professionals.