How to Become a Pediatrician

Becoming a pediatrician is an exciting career option for those who love children and enjoy working with them. Pediatricians need to work hard to achieve success in their field. Many universities in the United States of America offer full time courses in pediatrics. Baylor University, University of Colorado, Stanford University, Yale University are some of the world famous universities imparting quality education in pediatrics.

The preparation for becoming a pediatrician starts right from the high school level. Students who opt for physics, chemistry and biology can think of joining the medical profession. But it is essential to score brilliant marks in these subjects in high school and also in the medical entrance test. The reason for this is very simple - admission to top medical colleges is highly coveted. The saying "Survival of the Fittest" is applicable to medical admissions too. Now, let's understand in detail, how to become a pediatrician.

To become a pediatrician in the US, it is necessary to clear the MCAT entrance test with flying colors. In the first year, students study human anatomy and physiology, pathology and microbiology. Then, in the second year, students have to appear for United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) - part 1. It is mandatory to clear the examination with valid scores. Students study internal medicine, family practice and pediatrics in the second and third year. During the fourth and fifth year, students learn specific fields and get hands on experience in dealing with complicated cases. They also appear for the (USMLE) part - 2 exam. Students need to apply for a residency to gain practical experience.

Training During Residency

The residency is for a duration of three years. In the first year of residency, students work in rotations, in the units treating serious illnesses. Students have to appear for the third and final part of the USMLE examination, in the same year. In the second year, students get to work in neonatal ICUs and pediatric intensive care units. The third year of residency is most important and rigorous. The curriculum includes working in patient units and emergency rooms. After successfully completing residency, one has to appear for the general pediatrics certification examination. This exam is conducted by the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP). Students who clear the exam are conferred with MD (Doctor of Medicine) or DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) degrees. American Academy of Pediatrics gives specialized training in domains like Adolescent Medicine, Pediatric Cardiology, Pediatric Rheumatology, Pediatric Pulmonology, Developmental Pediatrics and Pediatric Critical Care Medicine. Apart from the US, this educational system is prevalent in many European countries.

Some More Information about Pediatricians

In India, colleges like University of Mumbai, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Health Sciences offer postgraduate courses in pediatrics. Before applying for them, you need to complete your MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery). As mentioned earlier, one has to score well in the entrance test to get a seat. PMT (Pre Medical Test), CET (Common Entrance Test) are the entrance tests conducted in India. MD (Doctor of Medicine) and work experience certificate are the required qualifications for a pediatrician in India.

How Pediatricians Work

Now, we shall discuss how pediatricians work. Pediatricians diagnose and treat injuries and infections in children. They also treat organic diseases, and various other ailments like, tuberculosis, jaundice, typhoid, growth related disorders like marasmus, etc. This way pediatricians help in reducing child and infant mortality. Pediatricians play a vital role in a country like India where thousands of infant deaths are registered every year. They need to understand child psychology as children are very moody. Pediatricians need to have a lot of patience because children are initially reluctant to interact with strangers. They solve behavior-related problems in children. Some pediatricians tackle general health issues, while others specialize in treating diseases like heart attacks, cancer, kidney failure, etc. in children. Pediatricians have to work for long hours and have to be physically and mentally fit. They can either practice as independent doctors or take up government or private hospital jobs. People joining this profession with the sole objective of earning money may not succeed.

Becoming a pediatrician is difficult, but not impossible. It is a noble profession which gives both - job satisfaction and a decent income.