I Know I Want a Medical Career, but Which One? An Overview of Options.

The Big Three There are many, many different types of doctors, but most fall under three broad categories: Primary Care Physician Specialist Surgeon Today, we will look at a basic overview of what each of these different types of physicians do.

Primary Care Physicians: Are also known as “General Practitioners” or “Family Physicians.” Are seen the most often. Have a degree in family medicine. Most often work in outpatient clinics as family doctors, but can also be: –Hospitalists –Urgent Care Providers –Medical Directors Provide comprehensive care. (Treat a wide range of medical issues) Focus on the “whole patient.” (including mental and emotional needs) Build relationships with patients while providing treatment over long-periods of time. Focus on preventing illness as well as treating it. Coordinate care with other medical professionals. (Can refer people to specialists.)

Specialists Go through intensive training in their chosen specialty after medical school. Have their choice of dozens of specialties, including: –Cardiology –Pediatrics –Emergency Medicine –Dermatology –Neurologist –Anesthesiologist –General Surgery –And Many More! Work in a variety of places, according to their specialty. –Women’s Care Clinics –Pediatric Medical Practices –Hospitals Often see patients who are referred by primary care physicians for specific conditions. Daily duties vary according to specialty. May choose to further their specialization, such as a neurologist who specializes in stroke patients. Surgeon is a specialty that has many different sub-specialties.

Surgeons A surgeon is a specialist. There are many sub-specialties a surgeon can focus on: –cardiothoracic surgery –general surgery –neurosurgery –oral and maxillofacial surgery –colon & rectal surgery –otolaryngology (ENT) –pediatric surgery –plastic surgery –trauma and orthopaedic surgery –urology A surgeon’s daily life will vary, depending on their chosen sub- specialty. Some may: –Be required to be on call –Do emergency work –Work at clinics Most will divide their time among: –Surgery –Pre and post-op care –Outpatient care –Teaching –Administrative duties

Broad Category Overview Data for this chart from and from

Just Scratching the Surface These facts and figures you have just seen are only the most bare- bones statistics. There are a wide range of healthcare career options, each with its own rewards and challenges. The chart on the previous slide is a rough representation. Hours worked per week, salary, and education requirements can vary greatly by specialty or sub-specialty.

Still not Sure Which Path is Right for You? Please feel free to ask any questions you have at this point.