Doctor Definition, Types & How To Become One

Being a doctor is a noble profession that involves providing medical care to individuals in need. Doctors play a crucial role in society by diagnosing and treating illnesses, promoting health and wellness, and saving lives. If you have ever wondered what it takes to become a doctor, this article will provide you with all the information you need. From the definition of a doctor to the various types of doctors and the steps to becoming one, let’s explore this fascinating career path in detail.

Definition of a Doctor

A doctor is a medical professional who has completed the necessary education and training to practice medicine. They are responsible for diagnosing and treating illnesses, injuries, and diseases in patients. Doctors may work in various settings such as hospitals, clinics, private practices, or research institutions. They are highly knowledgeable about the human body and its functions, and they use this knowledge to provide medical care and improve the health of their patients.

Types of Doctors

1. General Practitioner

A general practitioner, also known as a family doctor or primary care physician, is a medical professional who provides comprehensive healthcare to individuals of all ages. They diagnose and treat a wide range of illnesses and injuries and often serve as the first point of contact for patients seeking medical care.

2. Specialist

A specialist is a doctor who focuses on a specific area of medicine. They have undergone additional training and education in their chosen specialty. Some examples of specialists include cardiologists, dermatologists, neurologists, and orthopedic surgeons. Specialists often work closely with general practitioners to provide specialized care to patients.

3. Surgeon

A surgeon is a doctor who specializes in performing surgical procedures. They are skilled in using surgical techniques to treat injuries, diseases, and deformities. Surgeons may specialize in various fields such as cardiovascular surgery, orthopedic surgery, or plastic surgery.

4. Psychiatrist

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses. They are trained to assess a patient’s mental health and provide appropriate interventions, which may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

5. Pediatrician

A pediatrician is a doctor who specializes in providing medical care to infants, children, and adolescents. They are knowledgeable about the unique health needs of young patients and provide preventive care, diagnose and treat illnesses, and monitor growth and development.

6. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

An obstetrician/gynecologist, commonly referred to as an OB/GYN, is a doctor who specializes in women’s health. They provide medical care related to pregnancy, childbirth, and reproductive health. They may also perform surgeries such as cesarean sections or hysterectomies.

How to Become a Doctor

1. Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree

The first step towards becoming a doctor is to complete a bachelor’s degree. Although there is no specific major required for medical school, it is common for aspiring doctors to pursue degrees in pre-medical or scientific fields such as biology, chemistry, or biochemistry.

2. Take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)

After completing a bachelor’s degree, aspiring doctors need to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). This standardized exam assesses their knowledge and skills in areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, and critical thinking. A good MCAT score is essential for getting accepted into medical school.

3. Complete Medical School

Once accepted into medical school, students undergo four years of intensive education and training. The first two years typically focus on classroom learning and laboratory work, while the last two years involve clinical rotations, where students gain hands-on experience in various medical specialties.

4. Pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE)

After graduating from medical school, aspiring doctors must pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). This three-step exam assesses their ability to apply medical knowledge, skills, and principles in patient care settings. Passing the USMLE is a requirement to obtain a medical license.

5. Complete Residency Training

After passing the USMLE, doctors must complete residency training in their chosen specialty. Residency programs typically last three to seven years, depending on the specialty. During this time, doctors work under the supervision of experienced physicians and further develop their clinical skills.

6. Obtain Medical Licensure

Once residency training is completed, doctors must obtain medical licensure to practice medicine independently. The requirements for medical licensure vary by state, but generally involve passing a state licensing exam and meeting other criteria such as completing a certain number of continuing medical education credits.

7. Consider Further Specialization

After obtaining medical licensure, some doctors may choose to pursue further specialization through fellowship programs. Fellowships provide additional training and expertise in a specific area of medicine and may be required for certain subspecialties.

Conclusion

Becoming a doctor requires years of education, training, and dedication. It is a rewarding career path that allows individuals to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether you aspire to be a general practitioner, specialist, surgeon, psychiatrist, pediatrician, or any other type of doctor, the journey to becoming a doctor is a challenging but fulfilling one.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to become a doctor?

The path to becoming a doctor typically takes around 10 to 15 years, depending on the specialty and additional training pursued.

2. Can I become a doctor if I didn’t major in a scientific field?

Yes, it is possible to become a doctor even if you did not major in a scientific field. However, you may need to complete additional prerequisite courses to fulfill the requirements for medical school admission.

3. What is the average salary of a doctor?

The average salary of a doctor varies depending on factors such as specialty, experience, and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for physicians and surgeons was $206,500 as of May 2020.

4. Can I specialize in multiple areas of medicine?

While it is possible to have expertise in multiple areas of medicine, most doctors choose to specialize in a single field to provide focused care to their patients.

5. What are the qualities of a good doctor?

Some qualities of a good doctor include empathy, excellent communication skills, strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and a lifelong commitment to learning and professional development.