From dreamers to doers: Navigating the doctoral journey in family medicine and primary care

Abstract

This article examines the transformative journey of pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in family medicine and primary care through the lived experiences of four African scholar-practitioners. Using the Hero’s Journey framework, the authors reflect on the emotional, intellectual and structural aspects of doctoral education, highlighting the unique challenges faced by clinician-researchers in resource-limited settings. Each vignette illustrates the transition from dreaming to doing by navigating identity shifts, funding obstacles, methodological complexities, as well as the need to balance clinical service with academic development. The article offers practical insights for prospective doctoral degree candidates, including the importance of defining one’s purpose, building supportive networks, and adopting adaptable strategies. It also calls for institutional reforms to enhance supervisory capacity and funding mechanisms. By merging personal narratives with reflective analysis, the authors aim to inspire and equip future doctoral candidates in family medicine and primary care, encouraging them to view their journey not just as an academic endeavour but as a pathway to leadership, thereby strengthening the discipline’s knowledge foundation and enhancing primary care. This contribution serves as a guide for moving from aspiration to action, offering practical wisdom for navigating the complexities of doctoral education in African primary care contexts.