Becoming A Pediatrician?

Question:What is there to do? Like would it take many years to become one? How many years of school? I need some information to see if im interested..please help...

Answers:
@ 4 yrs of undergrad. Major doesn't matter. You just have to take all the classes med schools require. However, with school overcrowding, you need to be a science major to get in to the required science classes in a reasonable amount of time.

4 yrs of med school.

3 yrs of pediatric residency.
Pediatricians are doctors who specialize in the care of young people, from newborns to adolescents. They are involved in diagnosing and treating injuries, infections, and diseases for young patients, as well as counseling them through difficult times and situations, such as puberty and family problems. Because they deal with children and teenagers, pediatricians are likely to encounter certain diseases and problems such as asthma, lead poisoning, allergies, acne, and drug abuse.

Like other physicians, a pediatrician’s first responsibility is to diagnose illnesses. He or she does this by combining physical exams with the information in patients’ medical histories, and by ordering special tests (for example, x-rays and blood tests). Next, the pediatrician recommends treatment programs. These programs can involve medication, surgery, rehabilitation, or advice about exercise and nutrition.

During the treatment process, a pediatrician often communicates with social workers, family members, and other health care professionals (such as nurses and specialists) in order to complete the diagnosis and decide upon treatment. For example, a pediatrician may notice several signs in a young patient that suggest Attention Deficit Disorder. The patient might be irritable and unable to concentrate, and his or her parents might be concerned about school performance. In this situation, the pediatrician may decide to send the patient to a psychiatrist for treatment.

The role of pediatricians is becoming increasingly important as psychological and social conditions worsen for many children and adolescents. These doctors may be the first and best chance for young people faced with family violence, homelessness, and substance abuse. Many pediatricians work within the community as children’s advocates, educating the public about issues such as car safety for infants or the health concerns of children in minority ethnic groups.

Pediatricians may work for hospitals, health clinics, or government agencies. Many are self-employed, opening their own private practice offices or becoming partners with other physicians in clinics. Some also work in colleges as professors.

Earnings for pediatricians vary depending on a number of factors, including their location and whether or not they practice a subspecialty. Their income is also affected by the number of hours they work and the number of patients seen. Other factors include experience, reputation, and personality.

For example, pediatric residents make much less than fully-qualified pediatricians, often earning between $35,000 and $50,000 a year. Also, those who have training in a subspecialty, such as pediatric cardiology, usually earn more than those whose training is in general pediatrics.

The median annual income for pediatricians is about $135,000 a year, with most earning between $100,000 and $200,000 a year. Those who have large, successful practices and many years of experience, or who work their way into senior positions in large hospitals, can make well over $250,000 a year.

Salaried physicians who work for hospitals and other medical organizations receive benefits in addition to their salaries. Benefits may include health and life insurance, pension plans, and paid vacation and sick days. Doctors who work for themselves must supply their own benefits.

It's alot of information. I hope it helps you. =)

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