Top 10 Medical TV Shows Ranked by Real Doctors

Top 10 Medical TV Shows Ranked by Real Doctors

Medical TV shows have always been a staple of entertainment, capturing the attention of both medical professionals and the general public. From the fast-paced emergency rooms to the ethical dilemmas faced by doctors, these shows offer a blend of drama, education, and insight into the world of healthcare. But how accurate are they? And which ones do real doctors actually enjoy? We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 medical TV shows, ranked by doctors who know the field best. This ranking considers both the entertainment value and the realism of these portrayals.

1. ER

• Premiere Date: 1994
• Network: NBC

Why Doctors Love It: "ER" is often heralded as the gold standard of medical dramas. The show, which ran for an impressive 15 seasons, was known for its gritty realism, fast-paced emergency room scenes, and complex medical cases. Many doctors appreciate "ER" for its accurate portrayal of the chaos and intensity that often characterizes real-life emergency medicine. The show’s creators consulted with medical professionals to ensure that the medical procedures and terminology were as accurate as possible, which is one reason why it resonates so well with the medical community.

Critique: While "ER" is praised for its realism, some doctors have noted that the show occasionally ramps up the drama for the sake of entertainment, leading to some over-the-top situations that are less likely in real life. Nevertheless, it remains a favorite among healthcare professionals.

2. House, M.D.

• Premiere Date: 2004
• Network: Fox

Why Doctors Love It: "House, M.D." introduced the world to Dr. Gregory House, a brilliant but irascible diagnostician with a knack for solving the most baffling medical cases. The show is lauded for its focus on the diagnostic process, which is a crucial part of medicine that often goes unrepresented on TV. Dr. House’s relentless pursuit of the correct diagnosis, even when it requires unconventional methods, resonates with many physicians who value the importance of critical thinking in medicine.

Critique: Despite its strengths, "House, M.D." is also known for its often unrealistic portrayals of rare diseases and dramatic medical emergencies. Real doctors note that while the show is intellectually stimulating, it sometimes oversimplifies or exaggerates medical conditions for dramatic effect.

3. Scrubs

• Premiere Date: 2001
• Network: NBC

Why Doctors Love It: "Scrubs" stands out in the medical TV show genre because of its unique blend of humor and heart. The show follows a group of medical interns as they navigate the challenges of working in a hospital. What sets "Scrubs" apart is its focus on the human side of medicine—the friendships, the mentorship, and the emotional toll that the profession can take. Many doctors appreciate "Scrubs" for its honest portrayal of the struggles that young doctors face, and for its ability to find humor in the daily grind of hospital life.

Critique: While "Scrubs" is beloved for its humor and relatability, it’s not always the most accurate depiction of medical procedures or hospital operations. However, most doctors are willing to overlook these inaccuracies because of the show’s strong emotional core and the way it captures the experience of being a doctor.

4. The Good Doctor

• Premiere Date: 2017
• Network: ABC

Why Doctors Love It: "The Good Doctor" follows Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome, as he navigates the challenges of working in a prestigious hospital. The show has been praised for its representation of neurodiversity and for shedding light on the unique perspectives and challenges that individuals with autism may face in the medical field. Many doctors appreciate the show’s focus on empathy, communication, and the importance of teamwork in healthcare.

Critique: While "The Good Doctor" has been lauded for its positive representation of autism, some critics argue that the show can be overly idealistic, with medical cases that are wrapped up neatly in a single episode. However, the show’s heart and commitment to showcasing different perspectives in medicine have earned it a dedicated following among healthcare professionals.

5. Grey’s Anatomy

• Premiere Date: 2005
• Network: ABC

Why Doctors Love It: "Grey’s Anatomy" is a cultural phenomenon that has been on the air for nearly two decades. The show’s blend of high-stakes medical drama, complex relationships, and personal growth has made it a favorite among viewers and doctors alike. While "Grey’s Anatomy" is known for its dramatic plot twists and intense emotional scenes, it also touches on important medical and ethical issues, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Critique: Despite its popularity, "Grey’s Anatomy" is often criticized by medical professionals for its unrealistic portrayals of certain medical procedures and hospital life. Some doctors have pointed out that the show tends to focus more on the characters’ personal lives than on accurate medical practice. Nevertheless, it remains a beloved show for its compelling storytelling and character development.

6. Call the Midwife

• Premiere Date: 2012
• Network: BBC

Why Doctors Love It: "Call the Midwife" offers a unique look at midwifery and healthcare in post-war Britain. The show is based on the memoirs of Jennifer Worth, a midwife in 1950s London, and provides a historical perspective on the challenges and triumphs of the profession. Many doctors appreciate the show for its attention to detail and its accurate portrayal of the social and medical issues of the time. The show’s focus on women’s health and the role of midwives in delivering care adds a valuable dimension to the medical TV genre.

Critique: While "Call the Midwife" is praised for its historical accuracy, some viewers may find the slower pace and period setting less engaging than more modern medical dramas. However, for those interested in the history of medicine, it offers a fascinating and well-researched portrayal of midwifery and healthcare in the mid-20th century.

7. The Knick

• Premiere Date: 2014
• Network: Cinemax

Why Doctors Love It: "The Knick" is a period drama set in the early 20th century, focusing on the staff of the Knickerbocker Hospital in New York City. The show delves into the early days of modern medicine, showcasing the challenges and innovations of the time. Doctors appreciate "The Knick" for its historical accuracy, particularly in its depiction of surgical procedures and the evolution of medical practices. The show also explores the social and ethical issues faced by doctors in a rapidly changing world.

Critique: "The Knick" is not for the faint of heart, as it features graphic surgical scenes and a dark, gritty tone. While this realism is appreciated by medical professionals, it may be too intense for some viewers. Nevertheless, it is a compelling and thought-provoking look at the history of medicine.

8. Chicago Med

• Premiere Date: 2015
• Network: NBC

Why Doctors Love It: "Chicago Med" is part of the "Chicago" franchise and focuses on the staff of Gaffney Chicago Medical Center. The show is known for its realistic portrayal of medical emergencies and the challenges faced by doctors and nurses in a busy urban hospital. Many doctors appreciate the show’s focus on teamwork and the ethical dilemmas that healthcare professionals encounter. The show also highlights the importance of communication and collaboration in delivering high-quality patient care.

Critique: While "Chicago Med" is praised for its realistic depiction of hospital life, it sometimes falls into the trap of sensationalizing medical cases for dramatic effect. Some doctors have noted that the show occasionally prioritizes drama over accuracy, but it remains a favorite for its engaging storylines and strong character development.

9. New Amsterdam

• Premiere Date: 2018
• Network: NBC

Why Doctors Love It: "New Amsterdam" is inspired by the memoir "Twelve Patients: Life and Death at Bellevue Hospital" by Dr. Eric Manheimer. The show follows Dr. Max Goodwin, the new medical director at one of America’s oldest public hospitals, as he strives to reform the institution and provide better care for patients. Doctors appreciate "New Amsterdam" for its focus on patient-centered care and the challenges of working within a complex healthcare system. The show addresses important issues such as healthcare access, equity, and the impact of bureaucracy on patient care.

Critique: While "New Amsterdam" is well-regarded for its social commentary, some doctors have pointed out that the show can be overly idealistic, with storylines that are sometimes too neatly resolved. However, its emphasis on compassionate care and the human side of medicine has earned it a loyal following.

10. Doogie Howser, M.D.

• Premiere Date: 1989
• Network: ABC

Why Doctors Love It: "Doogie Howser, M.D." follows the life of a teenage prodigy who becomes a licensed doctor at the age of 14. While the premise is far-fetched, the show is beloved for its charm, humor, and focus on the challenges of balancing a medical career with the struggles of adolescence. Doctors who grew up watching "Doogie Howser" often have a nostalgic fondness for the show, and it remains a fun and light-hearted entry in the medical TV genre.

Critique: Of course, "Doogie Howser, M.D." is not a realistic portrayal of the medical profession, and it doesn’t pretend to be. The show is more of a coming-of-age story with a medical twist, and its value lies more in its entertainment factor than in its accuracy.