Core Viewpoint - The current medical education system in China is criticized for the disconnect between education and clinical practice, leading to a debate on the effectiveness of the "4+4" medical training model [1][4]. Group 1: Medical Education System - The "4+4" model, which grants a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree, is seen as inadequate due to the lack of clinical experience among graduates, necessitating further standardized training and examinations to practice medicine [1][5]. - Experts have suggested aligning China's traditional "5+3" model (5 years of undergraduate study plus 3 years of residency training) with the "4+4" model to better prepare graduates for clinical roles [3][4]. - The current system results in graduates with only a bachelor's degree facing difficulties in securing positions, as top hospitals increasingly prefer candidates with doctoral degrees [3][4]. Group 2: Employment Challenges - There is a growing trend among hospitals, especially top-tier ones, to require doctoral degrees for employment, making it challenging for those with only undergraduate or master's degrees to find positions [3][4]. - A significant portion of graduates from the "5+3" model end up in community hospitals, highlighting the mismatch between educational outcomes and job market demands [3][4]. Group 3: Need for Reform - The medical education system is described as fragmented, leading to confusion among students and inefficiencies in training qualified medical professionals [4][5]. - Establishing a streamlined system to shorten the training duration while enhancing clinical practice skills is deemed essential for producing more capable doctors [5].