Becoming Gods: Medical Training in Mexican Hospitals

Becoming Gods explores how a group of medical trainees in Puebla, Mexico, learn to become doctors through compelling fieldwork, ethnography, and interviews. It reveals the messy, complex, and nuanced nature of medical training, shaped by strict hospital hierarchy and a crumbling national medical system.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 16 July 2021
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

Becoming Gods delves into the captivating journey of a cohort of aspiring doctors in the vibrant city of Puebla, Mexico. Through rich ethnographic narrative, the book explores the intricate process through which these medical trainees acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to become physicians. Drawing upon compelling fieldwork, ethnography, and in-depth interviews with interns, residents, and seasoned doctors, Smith-Oka weaves a narrative that sheds light on the transformative power of medical training.

The book vividly portrays how these medical trainees navigate the complexities of wielding new tools, language, and technology, transforming their perception of themselves and their authority. The white coat, stethoscope, and newfound technical, linguistic, and sensory skills they acquire lend them an air of expertise and legitimacy that they carefully cultivate with each practice. This transformation not only enhances their professional capabilities but also reshapes their sense of self and identity.

Becoming Gods offers a nuanced and empathetic portrayal of medical training, revealing the messy, complex, and often challenging aspects of this journey. Trainees are not only tasked with acquiring an immense array of skills but also navigate the strict hierarchies and systemic challenges within hospitals. The book sheds light on the profound impact that these factors have on the trainees' personal and professional development, shaping their values, attitudes, and approach to medicine.

Furthermore, Becoming Gods highlights the broader societal and political context in which medical training takes place. The book explores the deep-rooted issues within the Mexican medical system, including inadequate resources, outdated infrastructure, and a lack of access to healthcare for many communities. These challenges not only impact the quality of care provided but also shape the trainees' understanding of their role in addressing these societal inequalities.

Through its compelling storytelling and insightful analysis, Becoming Gods provides a valuable perspective on the complexities of medical training and the transformative power of education and expertise. The book offers valuable insights for medical professionals, educators, and policymakers alike, as it sheds light on the challenges and opportunities faced by aspiring doctors and the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Weight: 445g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781978819665