I know firsthand how demanding a career in medicine can be. Long shifts, endless responsibilities, and little time to manage finances. That’s why I rely on the best metal credit cards to simplify spending, maximize rewards, and add a touch of luxury when I get to travel. Whether it’s earning points on flights to conferences, getting lounge access between layovers, or travel hacking your way to a well-earned vacation, the right card makes a difference. If you’re looking for benefits that match your lifestyle, here’s how to pick a card that works as hard as you do.

Why Metal Credit Cards?

You work long hours, and your credit card should do some work for you too. Metal cards aren’t just for show. They come with real perks, from airport lounge access to cash back on everyday spending. Some even help cover travel costs. The right one can make life a little easier, and let’s be honest, they just feel good in your hand.

Top Metal Credit Cards for Healthcare Workers

Best for Travel: The Platinum Card from American Express

If you fly a lot, this one is a game-changer. You earn 5X points on flights booked directly with an airline and prepaid hotels and flights booked through Amex Travel. More importantly, you get into over 1,400 airport lounges. I used to spend layovers hunting for an open outlet near a crowded gate. Now, with lounge access, I grab a free snack, settle into a quiet chair, and actually enjoy the wait. It also comes with a bunch of credits including $200 Uber Cash, $200 airline credit and $200 hotel credit each year. The $695 annual fee is no joke, but if you travel often, the perks can easily make up for it.

Best for Simplicity: Capital One Venture X

This is a great pick if you want good travel perks without micromanaging categories. You get 2X miles on everything, plus 10X miles on hotels and rental cars when booked through Capital One Travel. The $300 annual travel credit and lounge access add even more value. No foreign transaction fees means you won’t get hit with extra charges when using it abroad. I once racked up $50 in foreign transaction fees on a vacation as a resident before realizing my card at the time charged 3% per purchase. The $395 annual fee is much lower than some premium cards, making it a solid balance of perks and cost.

Best for Dining & Travel: Chase Sapphire Preferred

If you’d rather earn flexible rewards without a huge annual fee, this one’s a winner. It offers 3X points on dining and streaming and 2X points on travel. It also comes with built-in trip insurance, which is a lifesaver when the inevitable messes something up. I booked a trip to Portugal with this card, and when the flight got canceled due to a mechanical issue, the airline offered nothing. Thanks to trip insurance, I got reimbursed for the last-minute overnight hotel stay. The $95 annual fee is reasonable, especially if you use the rewards for travel.

Best for Business: American Express® Business Gold

Running a practice or side gig? This card can help maximize your spending. It gives 4X points on two business categories of your choice, like gas, shipping, or advertising. That means you’re earning the most where it matters. The $375 annual fee is steep, but if your business expenses line up with the bonus categories, it’s worth it.

Best No-Fee Metal Card: Apple Card

If you want a metal card without an annual fee, this one keeps things straightforward. You get 3% cash back on Apple and select brands and 2% when using Apple Pay. The best part? Cash back appears instantly instead of waiting for a monthly statement. No foreign transaction fees and easy expense tracking make it a great pick, especially if you’re an Apple fan.

How to Pick the Right Card

Think about how you spend when it comes to picking from the best metal credit cards. If you’re always catching flights, go for a travel-heavy card with lounge access. If cash back is your thing, pick one that rewards your everyday purchases. If you run a business, grab a card that boosts work expenses. And if you just want something simple without extra fees, Apple Card is an easy choice.

Bottom Line

The right credit card depends on your lifestyle. If you travel all the time, the Platinum Amex or Venture X gives you the best perks. If you’d rather keep things flexible, Chase Sapphire Preferred offers great rewards without a high price tag. No matter which one you choose, finding the best metal credit cards should work as hard as you do.