Dr. Nat:
If you read the Steipler’s letter carefully, you will find that he is responding to a shailoh in a more general sense, not just to the recipient of the letter.
BTW – that letter was written to Rabbi Abraham J. Twerski in Milwaukee. The Steipler knew his father from Hornesteipel, and concluded the letter with sending regards to him. The Twerski family has many anecdotes from interactions with the Steipler ZT”L, who spoke of their family with great awe and respect. Rabbi Dr. Twerski published a sefer with his correspondence with the Steipler, which lasted for over 30 years.
Perhaps Rabbi Twerski was an unusual case. But the letter was written as a general issue. You are correct, however, in suggesting that one with such aspirations have someone to serve as a guide. This is ever more important with the vast changes that have occurred in the medical field, medical education, and technology over the years since 1955.