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Family Physician |
Career OverviewMost physicians work long and irregular hours. In 2002, almost one-third of physicians worked 60 or more hours a week. Newer physicians usually work in salaried positions such as employees of group medical practices, clinics, hospitals, or health networks. Formal education is required as well as training.
As a physician the education and training is among the most demanding of any occupation but the salaries reflect this as they are among the highest also. Physicians have an effect on all peoples’ lives and serve a fundamental role in society. Diagnosing illnesses and prescribing and administering treatment for their patients with injury or disease is part of the physician daily routine.
The physicians obtain medical histories, examine patients as well as order, perform and interpret diagnostic tests. Diet, hygiene and preventative healthcare are topics covered by the physician while the patient is receiving consultation.
There are two types of physician: M.D. – Doctor of Medicine and D.O. – Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. Doctors of Medicine are also known as allopathic physicians. However M.D.s and D.O.s may use similar accepted methods for treatment, the D.O.s focus on the body’s musculoskeletal system, preventive medicine and holistic care. D.O.s are usually the primary specialists although they can be found in all specialties. About half of all D.O.s practice general or family medicine, internal medicine or pediatrics.
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Career RequirementsTo become a physician, it takes many years of education and training. Depending on the specialties selected, it takes 4 years of undergraduate school, 4 years of medical school and 3 to 8 years of internship and residency. Some schools offer a combined undergraduate and medical school which is 6 years instead of 8 years.
Premedical students take courses in Physics, Biology, Mathematics, English and inorganic and organic Chemistry. The students also need to complete courses in Humanities and the social sciences.
Minimum educational requirements for entry into medical school are 3 years of college, but most have completed a least a Bachelor’s degree or other advanced degrees. There are 146 medical schools in the Untied States in which 126 teach allopathic medicine while 20 schools teach osteopathic medicine.
Acceptance into these schools is highly competitive. Transcripts, scores from the Medical College Admission Test and letters of recommendation are required to be submitted by the applicants. Character, personality, leadership qualities and participation in extracurricular activities are also taken in to consideration. Most schools require an interview with the admissions board.
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Job OutlookThose who wish to become physicians must have the desire to serve patients, be self-motivated and be able to take the long hours of medical education and practice. Physicians need to exhibit an ability to withstand the stress and pressure of the demanding job. A good bedside manner, emotional stability and the ability to be a quick thinker in emergency situations are key components for becoming a good physician.
Through the year 2012 due to the ever expanding need for physicians, employment will grow very fast.
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Career TrackSome physicians work in private practices, offices or clinics which often assisted by a small staff of nurses and other office and administrative staff.
The following is a list of opportunities for a physician to explore:
- Internists
- Pediatricians
- Ob/Gyns
- Psychiatrists
- Surgeons
- Anesthesiologists
There many more avenues to explore in the world of medicine. Physicians often work as a team to provide coordinating care for a large population of patients.
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CompensationAccording to the Medical Group Management Association’s Physician Compensation and Production Survey conducted in 2002, the median total compensation for Family practice without obstetrics was $150,267.00.
Self –employed physicians generally had higher incomes then that of salaried physicians. The earnings vary according to hours worked, years of practice, geographic region, skill, personality and professional reputation. Self –employed physicians must provide their own health insurance and retirement.
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