Does ADHD disqualify you from being a doctor?

Asked by: Twila Beer  |  Last update: September 5, 2023
Score: 4.8/5 (74 votes)

ADHD Among Med Students and Doctors Is More Common Than You Might Think. There's a pervasive assumption that you can't get into medical school (or succeed as a doctor) and have ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). That's just not true.

Can I get through med school with ADHD?

The good thing is that ADHD can be used as a strength in medicine and studying. Once the sights are set and the target locked in, the drive is there to find success. This was true for my studying for the MCAT, Step exams and Emergency Medicine rotations.

Can you work in healthcare with ADHD?

These careers value the ability to empathize and identify emotions in others, which makes those with ADHD excellent candidates for roles that involve caring for others. Medical centers, mental health positions, and education can all serve as excellent career environments for those living with ADHD.

Can an ADHD diagnosis prevent you from getting a job?

The Positive Side of ADHD at Work

Because ADHD is considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you work at a larger company, they can't discriminate against you on the basis of your condition. The act also requires your company to accommodate your needs.

Is ADHD considered a medical disability?

Yes, ADHD is considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504).

My ADHD Story While Becoming A Doctor With ADHD!

37 related questions found

Is ADHD a form of Autism?

Autism spectrum disorder and ADHD are related in several ways. ADHD is not on the autism spectrum, but they have some of the same symptoms. And having one of these conditions increases the chances of having the other. Experts have changed the way they think about how autism and ADHD are related.

What are the benefits of having ADHD?

What are some ADHD benefits?
  • Hyperfocus. Hyperfocusing is a state where an individual with ADHD can focus on a task for hours on end, essentially tuning out everything around them. ...
  • Resilience. ...
  • Creativity. ...
  • Conversational skills and humanity. ...
  • Spontaneity and courage. ...
  • High energy.

Should I mention my ADHD in an interview?

Most of all, don't reveal you have ADHD until after you have a job, along with preparation, practice, keeping distractions to a minimum, and highlighting the strengths of ADHD (without revealing you disorder) in each question you can.

Do I need to disclose ADHD to my employer?

The only good reason for disclosure is when your efforts at getting accommodations have failed. If you fear that you without an accommodating change or service, disclosure may be necessary. One thing you should know: An ADHD diagnosis alone, does not entitle an employee to services and/or accommodations.

Are there jobs people with ADHD can't do?

Tasks. First, jobs that require a lot of repetitive tasks or strict attention to detail may be difficult for individuals with ADHD. These types of jobs are best to avoid because they can be tedious and may not provide the stimulation that individuals with ADHD need to stay focused and engaged.

What careers can people with ADHD do?

People with ADHD would do well in the following roles, too:
  • Sales representative.
  • Small business owner.
  • Hospitality worker.
  • Chef.
  • Teacher.
  • Emergency first responder.
  • Computer technician.
  • Artist or writer.

Can people with ADHD become nurses?

ADHD is not a death sentence to your dream of becoming a nurse. So let's just clear that up right away. And you are NOT alone. In fact, 25% of NURSING.com users have ADHD - with countless success stories.

Why do people with ADHD change jobs frequently?

But once the task or activity becomes too familiar, our ADHD brain loses interest. That's why many people with ADHD can sometimes be seen as "job hoppers" because they look for excitement and new things, and frequent job changes can quickly provide that for them 👔.

What percentage of doctors have ADHD?

And you won't be alone. Three percent of medical students have disabilities according to a December 2016 Journal of the American Medical Association study. Of that three percent, nearly 34% have ADHD, making it the most common disability for medical students.

What is high functioning ADHD?

Though not a formal medical diagnosis, high-functioning ADHD in adults is just as real but commonly misunderstood. The term describes people with (undiagnosed) ADHD that does not significantly impair their day-to-day activities.

How do you get a high GPA with ADHD?

More focus and effort is required to achieve a high GPA

However, don't be afraid to ask for help. Signing up with a tutor or study group or even just asking a friend to study with you can help keep you focused. Many colleges have academic support centers to connect students with tutors and other resources.

Can a company fire you if you have ADHD?

ADHD is covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act. That means your employer can't discriminate against you because you have ADHD. However, it doesn't mean you're required to tell your employer.

Should I list ADHD as a disability?

Yes. Whether you view attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as neurological — affecting how the brain concentrates or thinks — or consider ADHD as a disability that impacts working, there is no question that the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) covers individuals with ADHD.

Do you have to prove you have ADHD?

There's no simple test to determine whether you or your child has ADHD, but your specialist can make an accurate diagnosis after a detailed assessment. The assessment may include: a physical examination, which can help rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. a series of interviews with you or your child.

Should I tell recruiter I have ADHD?

Most applicants disclose their ADHD history in conversation with the recruiter, but they also must indicate their ADHD history in the medical documents they must fill out as part of the enlistment process.

What are reasonable accommodations for ADHD?

Though every individual is different, reasonable accommodations for employees with ADHD may include simple adjustments such as: A quiet workspace or noise-blocking headphones to reduce distractions. Calendars to keep track of important deadlines. Timers to help the individual stay on task.

Is ADHD A Neurodivergent?

Some of the conditions that are most common among those who describe themselves as neurodivergent include: Autism spectrum disorder (this includes what was once known as Asperger's syndrome). Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

What are the 5 gifts of ADHD?

Let's take a look at some of these ADHD gifts and how you can use them to your advantage.
  • ADHD Gift #1: Productivity. ...
  • ADHD Gift #2: Great energy. ...
  • ADHD Gift #3: Innovation. ...
  • ADHD Gift #4: Creativity. ...
  • ADHD Gift #5: Hyperfocus.

Are there successful people with ADHD?

Entrepreneurs. There are some well-known very high-achieving ADHD entrepreneurs including Richard Branson, Bill Gates and Walt Disney. Richard Branson had no interest in anything academic. Still, once he was able to harness his talents and imagination in his own way, he began to build a phenomenal business empire.

What are the weaknesses of ADHD?

They may also have reduced sensory tolerances (see Sensory Processing Disorder). All types of ADHD may include weaknesses in executive functioning. Thus, children with ADHD are more likely to have problems getting started on things, and have difficulty with planning, problem-solving, and time management.