Rank of an Army Doctor After MBBS Internship from AFMC

After completing an internship of MBBS from the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), an army doctor is commissioned with a specific rank within the Indian Army Medical Corps (AMC). This article will delve into the role and subsequent rank progression for army doctors who graduate from AFMC, providing a comprehensive overview of their career trajectory.

Ranks and Training Process

Once an individual completes their undergraduate MBBS studies at AFMC, they undergo a rigorous internship period. Upon successful completion of the internship and any necessary training, the doctor gets commissioned as a Captain in the Indian Army Medical Corps. This is a standard protocol within the Indian military framework. It is crucial to note that military ranks and promotions vary by country, so this information is specific to the Indian Army context.

The mandatory internship at AFMC is a critical phase in a medical graduate's career. Without completing this internship, an individual cannot register to the State Medical Council. This internship provides practical exposure and ensures that the medical officer is well-prepared for their future duties within the AMC.

Service Career Path

After commissioning as a Captain, which typically occurs one year after completing the internship, the army doctor’s journey within the AMC begins. The initial years are dedicated to field experience and further specialization.

After four years of service as a Captain, the doctor is promoted to the rank of Major. Eight more years of service as a Captain, or seven years as a Major, lead to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. These are time-bound ranks, meaning they are awarded upon reaching the stipulated service duration.

From Lieutenant Colonel, the ranks progress to higher levels such as Colonel, Brigadier, Major General, and Lieutenant General. These ranks are generally based on a merit-based selection process and are not automatically conferred upon completion of a certain number of years of service. Performance, experience, and evaluation by a selection board are key factors in achieving these higher ranks.

AFMC Cadets and Commissioning

AFMC cadets are commissioned into the services before completing their internship. They spend a significant portion of their internship in various service hospitals across India. Upon completion of one year of internship, they are promoted to the rank of Captain in the respective services: Army, Navy, or Air Force.

If a non-military doctor joins the AMC after completing their internship, they too are awarded the rank of Captain and an equivalent rank in the Navy or Air Force, depending on the service they join.

For individuals joining the AMC from a civil background, the internship at AFMC serves as their transition period from civilian to military medical training. Upon successful completion of the internship, they are commissioned as a Captain, reflecting their readiness to serve in the Indian military medical corps.

Depending on the specific arm of service (Army, Navy, or Air Force), the ranks awarded may differ slightly: Captain, Lieutenant, or Flight Lieutenant, respectively.

Conclusion

The commissioning of an army doctor after an MBBS internship from AFMC is a significant milestone in their career. The ranks and the subsequent promotions within the AMC are based on a combination of training, experience, and performance. Understanding the career path and the roles associated with different ranks is essential for anyone aspiring to serve as an army doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What happens if I do not complete the internship at AFMC?
If you do not complete the internship, you cannot register with the State Medical Council and will not be eligible for a commission in the Indian Army Medical Corps.

Q: How long does it take to get promoted to Major after being a Captain?
It typically takes four years of service to get promoted from Captain to Major.

Q: Can civil doctors join the AMC directly after completing an MBBS internship?
Yes, civil doctors who complete an MBBS internship from AFMC can join the AMC and are awarded the rank of Captain.