Housemanship is a transition period for a fresh medical graduate in experiencing life as a medical doctor. It can be exciting, tiring and disheartening to some people. These actually are also happening to the medical students but they are different to some extent.
First is responsibility. As a medical student, I am responsible to study well in order to equip my knowledge in order to be a good doctor and bring honour to my university. But as a houseman, I am responsible mainly to my patient because now I am directly involve in their management and treating them.
Second is accountability. Medical student may be excused for not knowing certain procedures or management. But as a houseman, I am being obliged to bear the consequences for failure to perform as expected. This is because I need to be well equipped during this period of time so that I can be relied on in the future. I also need to acquire the courage to admit my mistakes, mend my ways and to forgive the wrongs of others.
Third is night duty or on calls. During my medical student’s time, I also did calls, but whatever it takes, I was still able to go back and sleep in my room. As a houseman, I need to sacrifice my night time for sleep, and allowed to be awaken in the middle of night to attend patients, regardless how sleepy and tired I am.
Fourth is practicality. Five years in medical school have taught me many things and also mentally prepare me on life as a houseman. But once I’m experiencing it then I can understand why certain housemans during my student years appeared with various of facial expressions and mood. Medical student may somehow be theoretical in their management plan but as a houseman, I learned to be more practical and sensible in the management. I still remember one of my lecturer’s advice that every patient comes to you is different, so treat them properly, even though some may have similar disease.
Last but not least is sincerity. Although I got pay as a houseman, I need to bear in mind to be sincere in my doing as to extend my hand of service to all, the rich and the poor, to friend and foe alike, regardless of race, religion or colour. As a doctor, I am only an instrument of God Mercy and responsible to exercise justice, love and compassion for all the creation. May God grant me the strength, patience and dedication to adhere to the oath which I took as a medical doctor.
