What To Do After BAMS

Question

I’m about to finish my BAMS degree and feeling a bit overwhelmed about what to do after BAMS. There seem to be so many options, from clinical practice to further studies, but I’m not sure which path would be the best fit for me.

Can someone share the most common or rewarding career paths after BAMS? I’ve heard about pursuing MD in Ayurveda, but I’m not sure if it’s the only way to grow professionally. What are the pros and cons of starting a private practice right after BAMS compared to gaining more specialization first?

Another question I have is about alternative options, like working in Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals, wellness tourism, or research. Are these fields viable for someone who has just completed BAMS, or do they require additional qualifications?

I’m also considering integrating Ayurveda with modern medicine by taking short courses in complementary therapies. Would that be helpful, or should I focus on deepening my Ayurvedic knowledge instead?

If you’ve been in this position before, I’d love to hear your advice on what to do after BAMS and how you made your decision. What factors should I consider when choosing a career path in Ayurveda, and are there any opportunities I might be overlooking?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

After completing your BAMS degree, there are several rewarding career paths you can pursue depending on your interests and long-term goals. Clinical practice is one of the most common choices, where you can start treating patients directly, either in your own private practice or in an Ayurvedic clinic. This path gives you the opportunity to apply your knowledge of Ayurveda and build hands-on experience, but it requires strong business skills if you opt for private practice. Alternatively, pursuing further specialization with an MD in Ayurveda can deepen your knowledge and open doors for advanced clinical practice, teaching, or research, but it does require additional years of study. Other career options include working in Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals, which involves formulating, manufacturing, or testing herbal medicines, or exploring roles in wellness tourism, where Ayurvedic treatments and practices are integrated into resorts or health centers. These fields are viable but may benefit from additional qualifications or certifications in areas like pharmacology or business management. Research in Ayurveda is also an exciting and growing field, where you could work in academic institutions or clinical trials, but it often requires advanced degrees or training. Integrating Ayurveda with modern medicine through short courses in complementary therapies can be beneficial if you're interested in a holistic approach, but deepening your expertise in Ayurveda itself can provide a strong foundation for any career path. When choosing a career, consider your interests (clinical practice vs. research vs. entrepreneurship), your financial goals, and the opportunities in your area. Some factors to keep in mind include the time and investment required for further studies, your comfort level with entrepreneurship, and whether you're drawn to academia or hands-on healing. Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all path—explore different options, talk to mentors in the field, and follow the path that resonates most with your passions and strengths.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

Hey! So, you're finishing BAMS and feeling a bit lost, huh? Totally normal. You’re right, there are so many ways you can take your career after BAMS, and it's not all just about the MD route, though that's a popular one.

Jumping into clinical practice right away can be rewarding if you're the type who likes hands-on experience. Start small, maybe join under a senior practitioner or an established clinic to build confidence. But hey, if you’re thinking of opening your own practice, remember it takes stamina. You'll have to handle everything from patient care to the business side of things. Some people love that independence, though others find it a bit draining at first.

Now, pursuing an MD can deepen your knowledge, providing specialization in areas like Kayachikitsa (internal medicine) or Panchakarma. It usually leads to more academic or clinical positions, which can be stable but come with more years of study. Pros? You gain expertise, making you a sought-after consultant. Cons? It's more years in school.

Other paths like Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals or wellness tourism are totally viable. Some companies look for fresh BAMS grads to help develop products or work in marketing. It's a great fit if you like research or there's a desire to combine Ayurveda with business. Here, a slight edge in understanding market needs can help, maybe a short business course or internship in a related field.

Integrating Ayurveda with modern medicne? Interesting idea! Taking short complementary courses can make you more versatile, especially if you're interested in holistic wellness. But don't spread yourself too thin. Maybe start by solidifying your Ayurvedic foundation and then, gradually, add those extra elements.

Think about what you're passionate about and what fits your lifestyle. Sometimes it's about taking that first step, learning what works, and pivoting if necessary. Stay open to opportunities and explore. There's no one-size-fits-all. Choices are often dictated by personal interest, where you see the most growth personaly and professionally. It's okay not to have it all figured out right away. If you can, talk to a mentor or shadow a professional in a field you're considering. It might give you that clarity you're seeking.

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