Doctor of Medicine
Overview
A Doctor of Medicine (MD) is a medical degree, the meaning of which varies between different jurisdictions. In some countries, the MD denotes a first professional graduate degree awarded upon initial graduation from medical school. In other countries, the MD denotes an academic research doctorate, higher doctorate, honorary doctorate or advanced clinical coursework degree restricted to medical graduates. In those countries, the equivalent of the American first professional degree is the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS).
History
The MD degree originated in the early Middle Ages in medical schools of Medieval universities. The University of Glasgow's first medical graduate, Samuel Benion, was issued with the academic degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1599. The creation of the MD degree can be traced back to the institutionalization of medical education in medieval universities. The study of medicine in Europe during this time was largely influenced by the theory of humorism. This theory, established by Greek physicians, suggested that health was maintained by a balance of four humors: blood, phlegm, black bile, and yellow bile.
Education and Training
The education and training required to earn an MD degree varies globally. In most countries, the basic medical degree qualifies a person to treat patients and prescribe appropriate treatment, including drugs. A physician must go through a residency for at least three years and take some form of licensing examination in their jurisdiction. Only by holding a Medical Title can the postgraduate student apply for the Doctor degree through a doctorate in medicine program approved by the National Postgraduate Committee.
Medical Practice
After earning an MD degree, a physician is able to practice medicine. This typically involves diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries, ordering and interpreting medical tests, and advising patients on preventative healthcare. Many physicians choose to specialize in a particular area of medicine, such as cardiology, neurology, or pediatrics. These specialties require additional training and certification.
Licensing and Regulation
In order to practice medicine, an MD must be licensed by a state or national medical board. The process for obtaining a license varies by jurisdiction, but typically involves passing a series of examinations and demonstrating a certain level of clinical competence. In addition, physicians are often required to participate in continuing education activities in order to maintain their licenses.