There’s no denying or escaping our obsession with this area. From Scrubs to ER and Grey’s Anatomy: health and medicine is increasingly setting the scene for primetime TV...

does however have somewhat greater significance as an industry than entertaining us with the various exploits of ridiculously good-looking people; it is a career that helps humanity and saves lives. The nature of this line of work is so interesting that it explains, and pardons, society’s infatuation.

Employment in health and medicine can be much more varied than the most recognised roles of doctor and nurse. Other course and career options related to Medicine include Dentistry, Occupational Therapy, Speech & Linguistic Therapy, Optometry, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Psychiatry and Radiography. Each of these options is a distinct discipline and requires different and specialist training and education. There are also various subcategories within Nursing, including General, Children’s, Midwifery and Psychiatric. Health and safety inspectors are another source of employment in this sector.

The CAO points’ requirements are famously high for courses in health and medicine. However, there are other avenues into medicine, such as the new medical school in the University of Limerick for graduates of other disciplines, and part-time introductions to nursing courses. A great level of dedication and sacrifice is called for as third-level medicine and health students are made to work extremely hard, yet the benefits are worth the effort. Careers in health and medicine tend to be well paid, secure and highly esteemed; Dr Dreamys are not included…