In the journey toward medical school, one path that many pre-med students consider is taking a gap year. This period, typically spent away from academics, presents an opportunity to refocus, recharge, and refine areas of weakness. For those aiming to perform well on the MCAT and improve their medical school applications, the decision to take a gap year is often seen as a strategic move. But how does stepping away from the classroom affect the preparation for the MCAT and overall admission success?
A gap year, though often perceived as a break, is far more than just time off; it serves as a crucial period for personal and academic growth. Numerous studies and first-hand experiences have shown that gap years can lead to improved MCAT scores, a stronger medical school application, and a deeper sense of commitment to the field of medicine.
The Mental Rejuvenation: A Clearer Path to MCAT Excellence
The MCAT is one of the most challenging exams aspiring medical professionals will face, requiring a deep understanding of complex concepts across a variety of scientific disciplines. Preparing for the MCAT requires not only intellectual dedication but also mental endurance. A gap year offers students the time and space to refresh their minds and focus solely on preparing for this pivotal exam.
In the usual pre-med path, students often juggle coursework, extracurricular activities, and preparing for the MCAT, leading to burnout and scattered focus. The gap year alleviates this pressure by allowing students to concentrate on the MCAT without distractions. It creates an ideal environment for structured study plans, detailed review of scientific concepts, and, most importantly, taking practice exams without the looming stress of other academic obligations.
This gap period provides a mental reset, allowing students to approach their studies with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment. The decision to take a gap year gives students the luxury of dedicating substantial time to their MCAT preparation, refining study strategies that work best for them. By focusing exclusively on MCAT prep, they can delve deeper into subjects that may have been difficult during their undergraduate years, further strengthening their knowledge base and confidence.
Enhancing Clinical Experience and Gaining Valuable Insights
One of the most beneficial aspects of a gap year is the opportunity it presents to gain hands-on clinical experience or research exposure. Many students use this time to volunteer in hospitals, work as clinical research assistants, or even shadow practicing physicians. These experiences provide a deeper insight into the realities of the medical profession and allow students to develop essential interpersonal skills such as empathy, communication, and patient care.
Admissions committees view such experiences as highly valuable. Engaging with patients, understanding the dynamics of healthcare systems, and contributing to research all contribute to a well-rounded applicant. Moreover, the gap year offers ample time for students to engage in meaningful volunteer work, internships, or mentorships that directly relate to their career ambitions.
Gaining practical exposure to medicine also enriches the student’s application by providing real-world experiences that are much more profound than what can be learned from textbooks alone. It allows for a deeper connection to the field, making one’s application stand out as not just academically strong but also personally committed to the field of medicine.
The Power of Personal Reflection: Building Stronger Medical School Applications
In addition to academics and clinical experience, a gap year serves as an invaluable time for personal reflection. It is often in this period of self-reflection that students can truly understand their motivations for pursuing a career in medicine.
Taking time off allows for introspection, which can help students articulate their goals and aspirations more clearly in their medical school application essays and interviews. Students can use this time to explore different aspects of the healthcare field, discover where their passions lie, and connect with mentors who can guide them along their journey.
Moreover, the personal growth that comes with stepping away from the rigors of undergraduate life cannot be overstated. The gap year allows students to develop qualities such as resilience, emotional intelligence, and adaptability—traits that are essential for success in medical school and beyond. These are not skills that can be learned from books alone; they require real-world experiences that push students to confront challenges, overcome obstacles, and grow as individuals.
When students take time to reflect on their journey and align their values with their career goals, it results in more compelling and authentic application materials. Admissions committees value candidates who show maturity, a clear sense of purpose, and a deep understanding of why they are pursuing medicine. The gap year is a crucial period that fosters this self-discovery, enabling applicants to craft application essays and interviews that resonate deeply with decision-makers.
Building a Stronger Academic Foundation
While many students use their gap year to focus on clinical work or research, others may choose to address any academic deficiencies or gaps in their knowledge. The gap year provides ample time to revisit previously challenging topics, particularly in subjects related to the MCAT, such as biology, chemistry, and physics.
For students who may not have excelled in these areas during their undergraduate years, the gap year is an ideal opportunity to review key concepts, seek out additional coursework or tutoring, and strengthen their academic foundation. Whether through formal classes, online courses, or independent study, the gap year allows students to bridge any gaps in their understanding, ensuring they are fully prepared for the challenges of medical school.
Furthermore, a gap year enables students to pursue interests that may not have been possible during their undergraduate years. Whether it’s learning a new language to work with diverse patient populations or delving into bioinformatics research, a gap year offers flexibility to explore a wide range of academic and professional interests that may enrich their future medical career.
The Strategic Advantage of a Gap Year
A gap year is often misunderstood as a period of stagnation, but in reality, it can be one of the most transformative decisions a pre-med student can make. Whether it’s dedicating time to MCAT prep, gaining hands-on experience in healthcare, reflecting on personal motivations, or strengthening academic foundations, the gap year is an investment in both personal and professional growth.
For many, this extra time away from the classroom is a strategic move that allows them to enter medical school with greater clarity, confidence, and competence. It enables students to present themselves as well-rounded, thoughtful, and highly capable candidates who are ready to face the challenges of both the MCAT and medical school.
As the competitive nature of medical school admissions continues to grow, a gap year can offer a distinct advantage. When done thoughtfully and purposefully, it can be the key to unlocking potential and setting the stage for long-term success in the medical field.
Strategic Use of a Gap Year: Gaining Clinical and Research Experience for a Competitive Edge
When pre-med students decide to take a gap year before entering medical school, one of the most powerful ways they can use this time is to gain valuable clinical and research experience. This is not only an opportunity to bolster one’s application but also a chance to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare field. Clinical experience provides a direct connection to patient care, while research experience can showcase an applicant’s ability to contribute to scientific advancements in medicine. Together, these experiences not only enhance an applicant’s profile but also offer a better sense of what a medical career entails.
While the decision to take a gap year may initially seem like a delay in the academic timeline, it can provide numerous benefits that ultimately make a medical school application stand out. This section will explore the strategic use of a gap year to gain clinical and research experience, both of which can significantly impact MCAT performance and medical school admissions.
Gaining Clinical Experience: Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice
One of the most effective ways to use a gap year is by gaining hands-on experience in clinical settings. This type of experience allows aspiring medical students to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-life situations, which can prove invaluable during medical school and beyond. It also provides a better understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities of healthcare professionals, helping students confirm their passion for medicine and refine their long-term career goals.
For many students, clinical experience during a gap year involves working as a medical scribe, a patient care technician, or a volunteer in a hospital or clinic. These roles give students direct exposure to patient interactions, medical procedures, and the workflow within healthcare systems. While the level of responsibility in these positions may vary, the experience of being in a medical environment is instrumental in developing communication skills, understanding the complexities of patient care, and observing the realities of medical practice.
Moreover, clinical experience provides students with an opportunity to engage with patients from diverse backgrounds, which is an essential aspect of becoming a compassionate and empathetic physician. Through direct interaction with patients, students learn how to communicate effectively, offer emotional support, and provide care in various medical settings. These are skills that cannot be taught in textbooks but are developed through real-world exposure.
Admissions committees highly value clinical experience, as it demonstrates an applicant’s genuine interest in medicine, their understanding of the challenges in healthcare, and their commitment to patient care. This is particularly important because medical school is a rigorous and demanding environment. Candidates who have worked in clinical settings have a better understanding of the physical and emotional demands that come with medical training and are more likely to succeed when faced with these challenges.
Building a Research Portfolio: Contributing to Medical Advancements
In addition to clinical experience, a gap year can provide the opportunity to delve into research, another essential component of medical school applications. Research experience, particularly in medical or scientific fields, showcases an applicant’s ability to contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge. It also demonstrates critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a dedication to exploring new ideas—traits that are highly valued in the medical profession.
During a gap year, students may work as research assistants in academic labs, clinical trials, or research-focused medical centers. These positions allow students to engage in the scientific process, contribute to groundbreaking discoveries, and gain an understanding of the role of research in medicine. Whether working on projects related to genetics, pharmacology, or public health, the experience of contributing to research projects not only adds depth to a medical school application but also provides valuable skills in data analysis, scientific writing, and collaborative problem solving.
Research experience is particularly useful for students interested in pursuing careers in academic medicine or specialties that require a high level of research involvement. It provides them with the opportunity to co-author publications, present findings at conferences, and establish relationships with mentors in the academic community. These connections can prove invaluable when seeking strong letters of recommendation, which are often a deciding factor in medical school admissions.
Moreover, research positions can also give students insight into the emerging technologies and innovations that are shaping the future of medicine. By being involved in cutting-edge research, students can develop a deeper understanding of the scientific underpinnings of medical practice and gain exposure to the latest advancements in areas such as gene therapy, biotechnology, and medical imaging.
Combining Clinical and Research Experience for a Comprehensive Profile
While clinical and research experiences are valuable on their own, combining the two can provide applicants with a holistic view of medicine. The synergy between patient care and scientific inquiry is at the heart of modern medical practice, and candidates who have experience in both areas are better equipped to approach complex medical problems from multiple perspectives.
For example, students who work in clinical settings may identify challenges that could benefit from further research, such as gaps in treatment methods or a need for more effective medical technologies. Conversely, students who have engaged in research may develop a deeper appreciation for the practical applications of their findings in real-world medical settings. This interplay between clinical experience and research is crucial in shaping well-rounded medical professionals who are capable of addressing both immediate patient needs and long-term healthcare innovations.
Medical schools seek applicants who are not only academically strong but also versatile in their ability to engage with various aspects of the medical profession. Students who can demonstrate their involvement in both clinical and research settings present themselves as candidates who are not only prepared for the rigors of medical school but also committed to making meaningful contributions to the medical field.
The Impact on the MCAT: How Clinical and Research Experience Enhances Preparation
While clinical and research experiences are essential for medical school admissions, they can also have a profound impact on MCAT preparation. The MCAT, after all, is not just a test of academic knowledge but also a reflection of a student’s ability to apply their learning in practical and innovative ways.
For students who gain hands-on clinical experience, the MCAT’s biological and physical sciences sections can be approached with greater depth and understanding. Real-world interactions with patients and medical professionals allow students to better grasp the complexities of human physiology, disease mechanisms, and treatment protocols—key concepts that appear in the MCAT. Additionally, students with research experience may have a deeper understanding of the scientific method, which can help them approach the MCAT’s critical analysis and reasoning sections with greater skill.
Moreover, research experience fosters an analytical mindset that can be beneficial when tackling the problem-solving components of the MCAT. By learning how to analyze data, synthesize information, and develop hypotheses in a research setting, students are better equipped to think critically during the MCAT, where they must evaluate data, interpret complex scenarios, and make informed decisions.
Leveraging the Gap Year for Professional Development and Networking
Another significant advantage of a gap year is the opportunity for professional development and networking. Whether it’s through clinical experience, research projects, or volunteer work, a gap year provides students with the chance to connect with professionals in the medical field who can offer guidance, mentorship, and advice.
Networking during a gap year is essential for building a strong foundation for a career in medicine. Students can form relationships with physicians, researchers, professors, and other medical professionals who can provide valuable insights into the medical profession, help them navigate the application process, and offer recommendations for future career paths.
Mentorship during the gap year also plays a critical role in personal and professional development. Having a mentor who understands the challenges of pre-medical life can help students navigate the complexities of medical school applications and offer advice on how to succeed in the medical field. These relationships often become long-term connections that can provide support throughout a student’s medical career.
The Gap Year as a Catalyst for Success
In conclusion, a gap year offers pre-med students a unique opportunity to enhance their medical school applications and prepare for the challenges of medical school in a holistic and strategic manner. By gaining clinical and research experience, students not only strengthen their knowledge and skills but also deepen their commitment to the medical profession. The gap year serves as a period of growth, reflection, and professional development, positioning students for success in the highly competitive world of medical school admissions.
The time invested in clinical and research experience is not just valuable for building a strong application but also for gaining a deeper understanding of the role of medicine in society. Students who use their gap year wisely emerge as well-rounded, insightful candidates ready to tackle the academic and practical challenges of medical school. The experiences gained during this time can shape a student’s career for years to come, ultimately contributing to their success both on the MCAT and throughout their medical journey.
Personal Growth and Reflection: How a Gap Year Cultivates Resilience and Maturity for Medical School
Taking a gap year before embarking on the rigorous journey of medical school is more than just an opportunity to gain clinical experience or research credentials, it is a time for personal growth and self-reflection. Many aspiring medical students are under significant pressure during their pre-med years, juggling academics, extracurriculars, and applications. The intensity of this experience can sometimes lead to burnout, a lack of personal clarity, or doubts about one’s motivations for pursuing a career in medicine.
In this section, we will explore how a gap year allows students to step back, assess their goals, and foster essential personal qualities like resilience, emotional intelligence, and maturity. These qualities are not only crucial for success in medical school but also play an integral role in shaping compassionate and competent physicians.
Self-Reflection and Reevaluating Motivations
A key benefit of taking a gap year is the space it provides for self-reflection. Medical school is an intense, demanding experience that requires unwavering dedication, mental fortitude, and a deep commitment to patient care. Before making the final decision to embark on this challenging path, it’s important to take the time to reflect on why you are pursuing this career in the first place.
During a gap year, students can take a step back from the academic pressures and focus on introspection. This period of reflection can involve revisiting personal motivations, reassessing long-term goals, and considering the personal sacrifices that will come with medical school and a career in medicine. In addition to professional goals, students can think about how they envision their personal lives evolving over the next decade and beyond.
Sometimes, a break from the constant grind of schoolwork allows students to uncover new insights about themselves, their values, and their true motivations. For some, a gap year may lead to a realization that they need to adjust their career aspirations, while for others, it solidifies their passion for medicine. Either way, the clarity gained during this time can lead to a much stronger and more focused application to medical school.
Building Emotional Intelligence and Empathy
Empathy and emotional intelligence are two qualities that distinguish great physicians from good ones. A gap year provides students with a unique opportunity to develop these characteristics in meaningful ways. Whether it’s through volunteer work, interacting with patients, or traveling abroad to experience diverse cultures, students are exposed to new perspectives that enhance their ability to understand and connect with others.
In a clinical setting, for example, students may encounter patients who are going through difficult or life-changing experiences. The ability to empathize with patients and provide compassionate care is something that is cultivated through experience, and a gap year is the perfect time to build these skills. By working directly with patients in hospitals, clinics, or volunteer organizations, students develop a deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological aspects of healthcare.
In addition to working with patients, a gap year can also provide opportunities for students to engage in community service, mentorship, or teaching. These experiences can expand emotional intelligence by exposing students to individuals from different socioeconomic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds. Understanding the needs of diverse populations is crucial for any healthcare professional, and the ability to connect with people on a human level is fundamental to the practice of medicine.
This aspect of personal growth is not only important for medical school but for long-term success in a healthcare career. Physicians are not just scientists; they are human beings who must communicate effectively with patients and colleagues alike. The interpersonal skills gained during a gap year are invaluable in the medical field, where collaboration and empathy are key to providing quality care.
Resilience: Coping with Setbacks and Challenges
Resilience is one of the most important qualities for any medical student to develop. Medical school is filled with challenges—academic, emotional, and physical. Learning to cope with setbacks, handle stress, and stay motivated through difficult times is essential for success. A gap year provides an opportunity to build this resilience in a less high-pressure environment before entering the fast-paced world of medical school.
During a gap year, students often face challenges that may not be immediately related to academics or their professional goals. Whether it’s navigating the uncertainty of post-graduation life, adjusting to a new job or volunteer role, or managing personal obstacles, a gap year provides ample opportunities to develop problem-solving skills and emotional resilience. The ability to adapt to new situations and overcome adversity is crucial for thriving in medical school, where students often face heavy workloads, intense competition, and stressful clinical rotations.
Additionally, a gap year may also provide students with the time and space to work on their mental health and well-being. Many pre-med students experience burnout or anxiety due to the intense pressures of their academic career. A break can provide an opportunity to focus on self-care, mental health, and coping mechanisms. Whether through mindfulness practices, therapy, or physical activity, students can develop strategies for managing stress that will serve them well in medical school and throughout their careers.
Cultivating Time Management and Independence
Time management is another critical skill that is essential for success in medical school. During a gap year, students often find themselves juggling multiple responsibilities, whether it’s a part-time job, volunteer work, research projects, or travel. Learning to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks is crucial, as these skills are directly applicable to the demands of medical school.
In addition to time management, a gap year fosters independence. Students who take a year off to explore their interests, work, or travel gain a sense of autonomy that prepares them for the self-directed nature of medical education. Medical school is often more self-driven than undergraduate education, requiring students to take responsibility for their learning, manage their study schedules, and seek out resources and opportunities.
Independence gained during a gap year helps students feel more confident and self-assured when they enter medical school. They’ve already faced challenges on their own, managed their own time, and made decisions about their career paths. This autonomy can be an asset when it comes to navigating the sometimes overwhelming pace and intensity of medical school.
A Gap Year as a Time for Service and Giving Back
Another powerful aspect of a gap year is the potential for service and giving back to the community. Many medical schools value applicants who have a demonstrated commitment to service, as this reflects the ethos of healthcare—helping others and contributing to the greater good. A gap year is an ideal time for students to engage in community service, whether through volunteering at local clinics, working with underserved populations, or participating in global health initiatives.
By contributing to the well-being of others, students not only gain valuable experience but also develop a sense of fulfillment and purpose. This type of work allows them to see firsthand how medicine impacts communities, and it reinforces their commitment to the healing profession. Medical schools appreciate applicants who are not only academically capable but also socially conscious and dedicated to making a positive impact on society.
A Holistic Approach to Medical School Preparation
In conclusion, a gap year provides an invaluable opportunity for pre-med students to focus on personal growth, emotional intelligence, resilience, and service—qualities that are critical for success in medical school and beyond. While the time spent during the gap year may vary from student to student, the overarching benefits of self-reflection, building emotional intelligence, developing resilience, and gaining real-world experience cannot be overstated.
Students who take the time to grow personally and professionally during their gap year are often better equipped to navigate the challenges of medical school. They enter medical school not only with a strong academic foundation but also with the emotional and mental maturity to excel in this demanding field. A gap year, far from being a delay in the journey to medical school, is a valuable investment in one’s long-term success as a physician.
Crafting a Competitive Medical School Application: How a Gap Year Enhances Your Candidacy
In the competitive world of medical school admissions, applicants are expected to stand out not only in terms of their academic performance but also through their unique experiences, personal growth, and diverse skills. One of the most effective ways to enhance a medical school application is by taking a gap year, a strategy that has become increasingly popular among aspiring medical students. During this time, applicants can focus on strengthening their credentials, gaining meaningful experiences, and refining their personal qualities. In this final installment of our series, we will explore how a gap year can significantly improve your medical school application, from bolstering your resume to enhancing your personal statement and interview performance.
Strengthening Your Resume: Clinical and Research Experience
One of the most direct ways a gap year can enhance your medical school application is by allowing you to gain valuable clinical and research experience. Medical schools are looking for candidates who not only have strong academic credentials but also hands-on experience in healthcare environments. A gap year provides an ideal opportunity to work or volunteer in settings such as hospitals, clinics, research labs, or nonprofit organizations focused on health issues.
For students who may not have had enough time to accumulate clinical exposure during their undergraduate years, a gap year can be a game-changer. Spending a year working directly with patients in a clinical setting offers firsthand insight into the healthcare system, the challenges physicians face, and the importance of empathy in patient care. This experience is invaluable for demonstrating to medical schools that you are not only committed to medicine but also have a deep understanding of the realities of patient care.
In addition to clinical experience, a gap year can also be a perfect time to engage in medical research. Many medical schools place a high value on applicants who have contributed to scientific research, as it demonstrates a strong foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving, and a commitment to advancing medical knowledge. Whether you’re working in a lab, conducting clinical trials, or engaging in community health research, the skills and knowledge gained during this time can significantly strengthen your application.
Research experience, particularly in areas relevant to your interests in medicine, can also enhance your ability to contribute to medical school discussions, research projects, and ultimately, the medical field as a whole. Furthermore, students who engage in research during their gap year often find that they develop stronger writing and analytical skills, which are crucial for crafting well-rounded medical school applications and succeeding in the rigorous academic environment of medical school.
Enhancing Your Statement: Telling a Unique Story
The personal statement is one of the most important components of your medical school application. It is your opportunity to tell your story, explain why you want to pursue medicine, and showcase your unique qualities and experiences. For students who take a gap year, this is an excellent opportunity to highlight the meaningful experiences and growth you’ve gained during your time off.
Rather than focusing solely on academic achievements or standardized test scores, a well-crafted personal statement allows you to reflect on how your gap year has shaped you as an individual and as a future physician. Whether it’s the personal insights gained through volunteering abroad, the resilience developed through overcoming challenges, or the hands-on experience gained in a clinical or research setting, your gap year can provide a rich source of material for a compelling and authentic personal statement.
The experiences you gain during your gap year can also give you a deeper sense of purpose and direction in your application. For example, if you spent your gap year working in a healthcare setting with underserved populations, you can discuss how this experience solidified your commitment to working in primary care or public health. Alternatively, if your gap year included a research project focused on a particular area of medicine, you can explain how this work has inspired you to pursue a career in that specialty.
Medical schools value authenticity and self-awareness, and a gap year can provide you with the time and space to reflect on your motivations, passions, and career goals. This introspective process can lead to a more thoughtful and persuasive personal statement, which can significantly enhance your application.
Preparing for Interviews: Confidence and Self-Awareness
The interview process is one of the final hurdles in the medical school admissions journey, and it can often be the most daunting for applicants. One of the biggest challenges of the medical school interview is articulating your experiences, values, and aspirations in a way that resonates with admissions committees. This is where a gap year can provide a significant advantage.
During your gap year, you’ll likely encounter a range of new experiences that challenge you to think critically, solve problems, and navigate complex interpersonal dynamics. Whether you’re working in a hospital, participating in a volunteer program, or conducting research, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of the medical profession, as well as greater self-awareness. This maturity and perspective will be evident in your interview responses, as you’ll be able to discuss your journey more thoughtfully and reflectively.
A gap year also provides you with the opportunity to practice communication and interview skills. You can take time to work on your public speaking, engage in mock interviews, or even seek feedback from mentors and peers. By the time you sit down for your actual medical school interview, you’ll be able to speak confidently and articulately about your experiences, motivations, and the lessons you’ve learned during your gap year.
Moreover, the time away from the academic pressures of pre-medical studies can help alleviate some of the anxiety that often accompanies the interview process. Students who take a gap year often feel more grounded and self-assured, which can translate into a stronger performance during interviews. Admissions committees look for candidates who can demonstrate not only academic competence but also emotional intelligence, resilience, and maturity—qualities that are often honed during a gap year.
Building a Network and Finding Mentorship
Another significant advantage of taking a gap year is the opportunity to build a professional network and seek mentorship from individuals in the medical field. Whether you’re working in a clinical setting, conducting research, or volunteering, your gap year will provide ample opportunities to connect with professionals who can offer guidance and support as you navigate your medical school application process.
Mentorship is an invaluable resource for aspiring medical students. Mentors can provide advice on everything from selecting medical schools to preparing for interviews, as well as offering insight into the realities of the medical profession. Having a mentor who has experience in medicine can also give you a more nuanced understanding of the field, helping you refine your goals and better align your application with the expectations of medical schools.
In addition to individual mentorship, a gap year can also provide opportunities to build relationships with peers who are on similar paths. These relationships can be a source of support and camaraderie as you prepare for the next step in your journey. Engaging with others in the medical field, whether through volunteer work, internships, or research projects, helps you establish a professional network that can be beneficial not only for your medical school application but also for your future career.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a gap year offers more than just a break from academia, it provides aspiring medical students with the time, space, and experiences necessary to strengthen their applications and develop as individuals. Whether through clinical and research experience, personal reflection, enhanced communication skills, or professional networking, a gap year allows you to build a compelling medical school application that stands out from the competition.
Ultimately, taking a gap year is a decision that can have long-lasting benefits, both for your medical school application and your future career as a physician. By the time you submit your application, you will have gained valuable skills, insights, and experiences that will set you apart as a well-rounded, self-reflective, and resilient candidate. Rather than delaying your journey to becoming a doctor, a gap year can accelerate your growth, helping you enter medical school as a more confident, prepared, and focused individual.
Your medical school application is an opportunity to tell your story, and a gap year is a powerful way to enrich that story with experiences that are unique, meaningful, and impactful. As you prepare for the next steps in your medical career, consider how a gap year can enhance not just your resume but your journey toward becoming a compassionate and competent physician.
