BAMS vs BHMS: Which Alternative Medicine Path is Right for You?

FAQ on BAMS vs BHMS

What’s the core difference between BAMS and BHMS?

BAMS focuses on Ayurvedic medicine, which uses herbs and natural therapies, while BHMS is rooted in homoeopathy, which works on the principle of "like cures like."

Which is better, BAMS or BHMS, in terms of salary?

BAMS or BHMS salaries at the entry-level are similar, but due to the growing popularity of Ayurveda, BAMS practitioners may earn more with experience.

Which is better for global opportunities, BAMS or BHMS?

BHMS has better global recognition than BAMS, which is still gaining momentum outside India.

Can I open my clinic after BAMS or BHMS?

Both BAMS and BHMS graduates can start their practice after completing their degrees and obtaining the necessary licences.

Is BAMS more difficult than BHMS?

Both courses are equally challenging, covering vast areas of medicine. The difficulty lies more in your interest and passion for the subject.

Which course has a better future scope, BAMS or BHMS?

Both fields have promising future scopes, but BAMS is gaining popularity due to the increasing global interest in Ayurveda and wellness tourism. BHMS, on the other hand, has better international recognition in developed countries.

What are the job prospects for BAMS and BHMS in government sectors?

BAMS graduates can work in Ayurvedic hospitals, government dispensaries, and public health sectors. BHMS graduates can work as homoeopathic medical officers in government homoeopathic hospitals and dispensaries.

 Which course has better research opportunities, BAMS or BHMS?

BAMS has a growing research field in Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals and traditional medicines, while BHMS has limited research opportunities compared to conventional medicine but is growing in alternative therapy studies.

Can BAMS or BHMS graduates work abroad?

BHMS graduates have better opportunities to work abroad, especially in countries like the UK, Australia, and Germany, where homoeopathy is widely accepted. BAMS graduates have more limited opportunities abroad, but Ayurveda is gaining popularity in the wellness tourism sectors.

How much practical exposure do you get in BAMS compared to BHMS?

Both courses offer practical training, but BAMS provides more clinical exposure related to Panchakarma, Ayurvedic surgeries, and treatments. BHMS is more theory-based but includes clinical practice in homoeopathy.

Do BAMS or BHMS doctors have prescribing rights?

In India, BAMS doctors can legally prescribe Ayurvedic and sometimes even allopathic medicines. BHMS doctors can prescribe homoeopathic medication but are not licensed to prescribe allopathic drugs.

Can you pursue a postgraduate degree after BAMS or BHMS?

After BAMS, you can pursue an MD in Ayurveda or MSc/PhD in related fields. After BHMS, you can pursue an MD in Homeopathy or further specialise in alternative medicine.

 What’s the average fee structure for BAMS and BHMS courses?

The average fee for BAMS in private colleges ranges between ₹1 and 3 lakhs per year. Depending on the institution, BHMS fees are slightly lower, ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹ 2 lakhs per year.

Can I switch to allopathic medicine after completing BAMS or BHMS?

Switching directly from BAMS or BHMS to allopathic medicine is not possible. You must pursue an MBBS or other allopathic qualification to practise modern medicine.

Which has a more extensive scope in rural areas, BAMS or BHMS?

BAMS has a more extensive scope in rural areas due to the widespread acceptance of Ayurveda in traditional and village healthcare settings. BHMS is also accepted but more prevalent in urban and semi-urban regions.

Can I work in Ayurvedic or Homeopathic pharmaceutical companies after BAMS or BHMS?

Both BAMS and BHMS graduates can work in the pharmaceutical sector, focusing on research, development, and production of Ayurvedic or homoeopathic medicines.

 Which is easier to set up: an Ayurvedic or Homeopathic clinic?

Both are relatively easy to set up, but an Ayurvedic clinic may require a broader range of equipment and herbs, while a Homeopathic clinic might require fewer resources, as homoeopathy focuses on small doses and dilutions.

 Is it mandatory to complete an internship after BAMS or BHMS?

Yes, both BAMS and BHMS courses include a mandatory 1-year internship, which is critical for obtaining a valid licence to practise.

What’s the difference in treatment duration between Ayurveda and Homeopathy?

Ayurvedic treatments generally show results faster due to the use of herbs and physical therapies like Panchakarma. Homeopathic remedies may take longer as they focus on stimulating the body’s own healing mechanism.

Which is better for lifestyle-related diseases, BAMS or BHMS?

Both systems can be effective. Ayurveda (BAMS) is powerful in treating lifestyle diseases through diet, detox therapies, and herbal remedies. Homeopathy (BHMS) treats based on individual symptoms and is preferred for chronic conditions.