Discover the 10 Most Addictive Medical Dramas of the 2020s You Can’t Miss!

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The 2020s have brought about an unprecedented new phase in television entertainment, with must-see TV shows taking center stage. Among these, medical dramas have proven particularly captivating. Despite the notion that the genre has run its course after iconic series like M*A*S*H, House, and Grey’s Anatomy left their mark, the last five years have witnessed a resurgence of the most enthralling and hard-to-resist medical dramas ever created.

Viewers find themselves captivated by the gripping blend of high-stakes scenarios, intricate personal relationships, harsh realities, and a glimpse into the authentic workings of the medical field. The intense atmosphere of a hospital keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, biting their nails as they watch the unfolding drama. The 2020s have brought an impressive array of captivating productions to the genre.

Prepare yourself! These are the top 10 medical dramas from this past decade that could potentially inspire you to fake an illness and stay home from work. Enjoy!

10
‘SkyMed’ (2022)

In the stark and isolated landscapes of northern Manitoba lies an ideal setting for a dedicated group of nurses and aviators who work tirelessly for an air ambulance company. SkyMed offers a gripping portrayal of a vibrant, goal-oriented team of healthcare providers as they grapple with the complexities of providing urgent care and executing life-threatening rescue missions in the most demanding conditions, all while battling their own personal hardships.

Medical Heroics Reach New Heights

SkyMed offers a unique mix of action, emotion, and medical suspense that sets it apart in the drama genre. In just three seasons, it has risen above the competition by setting scenes high in the sky and raising the tension of the medical emergencies to new heights. Acclaimed for its realistic portrayal, this series is a must-see.

9
‘The Surgeon’s Cut’ (2020)

The Surgeon’s Cut is an outstanding documentary series that made its debut on Netflix in 2020. It focuses on four internationally recognized surgeons, each demonstrating the limits of their expertise. The show delves into neurosurgery, liver transplants, and more, providing a glimpse into these healthcare professionals’ lives, the advanced methods they employ, and the transformative effects they bring to their patients.

Rare Behind-the-Scenes Glimpse

This Netflix series, an anthology, distinguishes itself by portraying the medical profession in a relatable, empathetic manner while highlighting cutting-edge advancements within the field. Notable characters like Dr. Kypros Nicolaides and Dr. Devi Shetty have resonated with viewers due to their compelling stories, and the show as a whole focuses on merging scientific expertise with compassionate care.

8
‘Breathless’ (2024)

In the imaginary Joaquin Sorolla Hospital, nestled in Valencia, Spain, I’ve immersed myself in the captivating narrative of “Breathless.” As a fervent admirer of this tale, I walk the halls alongside Biel, a devoted resident physician, who grapples with the burden of a deteriorating healthcare system. When an urgent patient arrives amidst a severe strike aimed at challenging healthcare reductions, the doctors and hospital staff are confronted with a difficult decision: should they stand up for improved working conditions or prioritize the well-being of their patients.

Ethics in the Field of Medicine

Developed by Carlos Montero, famously associated with the internationally acclaimed teen series Elite, this Spanish show has swiftly emerged as one of the most buzzed-about new medical dramas in the 2020s. The reason for its popularity isn’t its novelty, but rather its striking resemblance to Grey’s Anatomy, which fans find irresistible as it delivers exactly what they desire. The first season, consisting of eight episodes, available on Netflix, blends character-driven drama with social commentary.

7
‘Malpractice’ (2023)

Grace Ofori-Attah’s work, titled “Malpractice“, starts off with a challenging night for ER doctor Lucinda Edwards. Faced with a critical situation, she has to make split-second decisions when treating a patient suffering from an opioid overdose and another patient who just came in with a gunshot wound. Unfortunately, her choice results in the death of the overdose patient. In response, the influential lawyer father of the deceased files a negligence claim against Dr. Edwards.

Blends Drama and Thrills

The medical drama set in Britain is recognized for its detailed examination of the moral quandaries that healthcare workers encounter. By focusing on one critical choice, it offers an intriguing perspective on the obligations associated with medicine in the 21st century. Niamh Algar delivers an outstanding performance as Dr. Edwards, and she’s backed by a skilled ensemble including James Purefoy and Helen Behan. The series Malpractice has been approved for another season.

6
‘Transplant’ (2020 – 2024)

On a more uplifting and less intense note, we have the series titled “Transplant”. This show centers around Dr. Bashir “Bash” Hamed, a refugee from Syria who is compelled to leave his homeland for safety reasons. He eventually settles in Canada with aspirations to resume his medical profession. Initially working at a restaurant as a line cook, Bash seizes the chance to showcase his talents at the fictional York Memorial Hospital, where he consistently gives his all.

Refugee’s Story of Redemption

Transplant captivates with its distinctive storytelling style and poignant tale. Hamza Haq takes the lead role as Bash, joined by Laurence Leboeuf and Ayisha Issa in stellar performances. Over the course of four seasons, the series has earned acclaim for its authentic portrayal of the immigrant experience and for its thoughtful handling of intricate medical cases.

5
‘Good Sam’ (2022)

The drama Good Sam unfolds within the busy corridors of Lakeshore Sentinel Hospital. It starts following a heart-wrenching incident where Dr. Samantha Griffith’s beloved father, renowned Chief of Surgery Dr. Rob Griffith, slips into a coma. With no choice but to assume his position, her responsibilities escalate. Trouble brews when he recovers and refuses to relinquish his duties, causing tension between the father and daughter.

Family Drama Meets Surgical Precision

In the 2020s, this captivating medical series will linger in your mind long after you’ve watched it, thanks to its top-notch storytelling and acting. At the heart of the plot is the tension between Sam and her father – one advocates for contemporary medical techniques while the other prefers traditional methods of cardiothoracic surgery. The show also explores family dynamics and personal ambition, ensuring viewers stay hooked throughout.

4
‘Five Days at Memorial’ (2022)

Moving away from the typical modern backdrops of other shows, Five Days at Memorial presents the heart-wrenching realities experienced by the staff at Memorial Hospital in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina’s catastrophic impact. With floodwaters rising, electricity failing, and resources dwindling, medical professionals are forced to make critical decisions about life and death.

Ripped-From-the-Headlines Drama

Drawing inspiration from Sheri Fink’s critically acclaimed non-fiction book, “Five Days at Memorial” stands out as one of the most harrowing, heart-wrenching medical dramas available today. This gripping series provides a chilling portrayal of a significant healthcare crisis in recent American history, and despite being set in 2005, its eight episodes are visually stunning and cinematic. It is highly recommended for its unsparing depiction of the event, the thought-provoking examination of ethical dilemmas that emerge, and the powerful performances delivered by Vera Farmiga, Cherry Jones, and other talented actors.

3
‘This Is Going To Hurt’ (2022)

This Is Going To Hurt was developed by Adam Kay, inspired by his memoir carrying the same title. It provides a glimpse into the life of an NHS obstetrics and gynecology department, focusing on the characters of Adam Kay and Shruti Acharya – two witty yet overwhelmed junior doctors. They struggle to manage the ups and downs of their career while attempting to establish themselves within the hospital’s ranks.

Impactful Slice of Medical Life

The BBC series is praised for its raw honesty and dark wit in showcasing the subtle truths of Britain’s public healthcare system. It’s been labeled as a pioneering blend of comedy and drama within the medical genre. In this show, actors Ben Whishaw and Ambika Mod deliver moving and realistic performances as they tackle critical emergencies, personal struggles, sleepless nights, and overwhelming caseloads.

2
‘Watson’ (2025 – Present)

Arthur Conan Doyle’s renowned detective has been a mainstay in numerous tales, but in this unique twist, the focus shifts to Dr. Watson from the Sherlock Holmes world, as he assumes leadership of the Holmes Clinic in Pittsburgh. This unfolds a year after the presumed demise of Sherlock at the hands of his arch-nemesis, Moriarty. In the storyline, Watson is depicted continuing his medical practice and caring for patients with unusual ailments. However, things take an intriguing turn when clues hint that Moriarty may still be alive.

Mystery and Medicine Collide in Pittsburgh

In a clever twist, the series Watson seamlessly combines elements of medical and detective stories, resulting in a narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally intense. The protagonist, portrayed by Morris Chestnut, exhibits traits reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes, such as keen reasoning, precise deduction, and sharp observation, all while solving intricate mysteries. Critics have lauded the show’s debut season, comprising nine episodes, for its compelling fusion of genres.

1
‘The Pitt’ (2025 – Present)

A new medical drama that has become quite popular in recent years, premiering on Max and produced by R. Scott Gemmill, is called “The Pitt“. This series takes place within the bustling emergency department of Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center, where an entire 15-hour shift unfolds live. The main character, Dr. Michael “Robby” Robinavitch, is a veteran attending physician who grapples with the lingering emotional wounds from the COVID-19 pandemic, which tragically claimed the life of his cherished mentor on that very same day.

Real-Time Drama in the ER

In “The Pitt,” we meet an eclectic group of residents, nurses, and Robby, as they all maneuver through the chaos together. The substandard healthcare system poses difficulties such as staffing shortages, financial constraints, and moral quandaries. Each episode vividly portrays the harsh reality of life in the emergency room, with Noah Wyle delivering a commendable performance as the series’ leading figure. The inaugural season comprises 15 episodes, and its popularity has prompted Max to approve a second season.

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2025-04-16 04:04