Active duty means that you will work full-time for the military. That means you can be deployed at any time. Since the Navy operates hospitals all over the world, you may be reassigned as the Navy sees fit, sometimes in a different country.
There are numerous advantages to being a Navy doctor. You may have medical school paid for, be able to practice without worrying about insurance or overhead costs, have a guaranteed pool of patients, vacation time, and plenty of opportunity for promotion and advancement. [3] X Research source Cons include consistent moving and relocation while you’re on active duty, being away from family and friends, and a more limited choice of specialties than the civilian sector. [4] X Research source
The applicant must be a U. S. citizen currently practicing medicine in the US. The applicant must be a graduate of a medical school accredited by the American Medical Association (AMA) or the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). A recent graduate must obtain a medical license within a year of enlistment. An applicant must be between the ages of 21 and 64. Candidates over 64 will be considered on a case-by-case basis. A recruit must pass a physical and mental exam.
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One possible financial package is the Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program. It includes 100% tuition coverage for school, plus a monthly stipend for living expenses. There is also the Navy Health Services Collegiate Program. This would provide from $157,000 to $269,000 for your education and living expenses.
Read Get Into Medical School and Survive Medical School for more detailed tips on finding the right medical school and successfully getting your degree.
Specialties include typical civilian areas like neurology, family medicine, dermatology, pediatrics, and sports medicine, and military-based specialties like fleet Marine Corps medicine.
You may have more choice of specialties if you do your residency in the civilian setting. The Navy also has programs to give financial assistance to residents, so as always, contact your recruiter and see what your options are. Residencies within the Navy are excellent as well, but space may be limited and you might have to wait for one to open up. [10] X Research source
Practicing physicians usually get a sign on bonus and a high salary, depending on their level of experience and specialty. Recent sign on bonuses can be as high as $220,000-$400,000 if the applicant is highly qualified. Doctors who have worked in the civilian field often enjoy the military because they don’t have to worry about insurance or other financial matters. They feel more free to provide the care they think their patients need. [12] X Research source
Officer Development School is a 5-week course that takes place in Newport, Rhode Island. Classroom topics include Naval Leadership, Naval Administration, Naval Organization, Sea Power, Military Law, Military Indoctrination, Naval Warfare and Damage Control. You must also pass a Physical Fitness Assessment. There is a 22% maximum body fat level for males and a 33% maximum for females. A test will include pullups, pushups, and a 1. 5 miles run. It is recommended that you begin an exercise regimen before attending.
