Derek’s decision to quit Seattle Grace in Season 5 was primarily driven by the overwhelming number of patients who had died under his care. As a skilled and dedicated surgeon, Derek always strived to save lives and provide the best possible care to his patients. However, when he discovered that more of his patients had died than lived, he began to question his abilities and the impact he was having as a doctor.
The weight of these losses took a toll on Derek both professionally and emotionally. He felt responsible for the lives that were lost under his care and couldn’t bear the thought of continuing to practice medicine in an environment where he felt like he was failing his patients. This sense of guilt and frustration pushed him to make the difficult decision to leave Seattle Grace.
Additionally, Derek’s decision to quit was also influenced by the personal struggles he was facing at the time. He had been in a complicated and intense relationship with Meredith Grey, another doctor at the hospital. Their relationship had been rocky, with numerous ups and downs, and Derek’s decision to quit was also an attempt to distance himself from Meredith and end their relationship.
By packing up his belongings and moving back into his trailer, Derek was not only physically removing himself from the hospital but also symbolically cutting ties with the life he had built at Seattle Grace. He needed time and space to reevaluate his career, his relationships, and his own sense of purpose as a doctor.
It is important to note that Derek’s decision to quit was not an easy one. He had invested a significant amount of time, energy, and passion into his work at Seattle Grace. Leaving behind his colleagues, patients, and the familiar environment was undoubtedly a difficult choice to make. However, Derek recognized that he needed to prioritize his own well-being and find a way to regain his confidence and sense of purpose as a doctor.
Derek quit Seattle Grace in Season 5 due to the overwhelming number of patient deaths under his care, which caused him to question his abilities as a doctor. He also sought to end his relationship with Meredith and needed time and space to reevaluate his career and personal life. This decision was not taken lightly but was driven by a desire to find a fresh start and regain his sense of purpose.