As I specialize further in my career, I increasingly wonder how much my time is worth. In the hospital, we often see a strict division of labor. Physicians seldom perform phlebotomy or vital signs–this is the job of lab techs and nurses.  Our time is valuable and should be spent on tasks that require our many years of specialized training.

Does this division of labor exist outside of the hospital? Numerous medical residents have told me that they hire housekeepers to maintain their homes or apartments simply because “it’s not worth my time”. Other chores that I’ve heard residents renounce include: 1) mowing the lawn 2) cooking 3) washing dishes [including putting dishes into the dishwasher].

I’ve renounced cutting/logging trees ever since I entered medical school, mostly because I find that operating a chainsaw may prematurely end my career as a physician before it even begins. I don’t particularly care for logging trees either. But what about other tasks? What tasks can you refuse to do before being labeled a pampered snob?

Today after working in the hospital for approximately 30 hours, I peeled 41 raw shrimp. Afterward, I cooked dinner, ate, hand-washed my dishes, and cleaned my kitchen. I don’t particularly enjoy cooking either, but I also can’t find food like this in my area at a reasonable price. I guess I have plenty of room to move up.

Shrimp and clams sauteed in tomato basil roux reduced with vodka. Served with curried red potatoes and white rice.

medicine, misc food, life