Why Med-Peds?

I thought I would explain some of my reasons for going into med-peds. For those that I haven't explained it to, Med-peds is a 4 year residency which is a combination of 2 years of pediatrics and 2 years of adult internal medicine. Those programs alone would be 3 years each.

Originally I thought I would be going into surgery when I started med school. I was really intrigued by laparoscopic surgery and even during med school I thought it was fascinating. But then, one day I cut my finger while making jerky and my Uncle Kerry made fun of "the surgeon". Just kidding, that wasn't why I decided differently. Also, I figured I might hate life if I had to go through the 5 grueling years of surgery residency. I rediscovered something I always knew. I get along well with kids. I love taking care of kids, even sick ones, which can be scary and emotionally trying at times. Multiple times my friends and neighbors would tell me I should be a pediatrician, but I always just kind of put it in the back of my mind for later. I also discovered I loved internal medicine. Some of my most gracious and respectful patients were old men at the VA. They thank you profusely for everything you do for them; I hate waking them up in the morning to exam them. Some of the hardest patients that test your patience are at the MED, the county hospital in Memphis. These people need love and healing as much as the next person because they are made in the image of God. I figure the average patient lies somewhere in between. 

One of my favorite things to study is the digestive tract, and maybe it's because I have Crohn's and I spent time at the Peds Gastroenterologist when I was younger, but I could definitely see myself as a gastroenterologist. I fellowship, or additional training after residency in Peds Gastro would be another 3 years. I also considered the possibility of doing a combined fellowship which would add even more years to my training.

The other, more serious reason I wanted to do Med-peds is because I want to do medical mission work. I don't know if this means short term missions or extended years away from home. So, I'm left wondering should I stop after residency and see where God sends me or continue training in fellowship. Do I settle down as a country doctor doing primary care or give away all my possessions and go into the world? I also have to take into account what my wife wants to do permanently, although I know she wants to do medical mission work as much as I do. I have much prayer left to do and a few years to make a decision. Pray that I have patience as the great physician works in me.