Physicians treat patients, diagnosing illness and providing treatment and medicine. They often work long hours. In addition, the training requirements to become a doctor are demanding. An advantage of the long hours and years of education are the high salaries. Physicians earn more than most other professions.
Physician Facts and Stats:
Physician Job Duties:
Physicians treat people suffering from illness and injuries. They perform diagnosis, administer treatments, review tests, and prescribe medicines. Physicians specialize in one or more areas of medicine. Common specialties include pediatrics, gynecology, psychiatry, surgery, and internal medicine.
Physician Work Environment:
Physicians frequently work in a hospital setting. Some have their own practice or work in a small practice. They spend most of their day standing and walking.
Physician Education and Training:
Physicians must receive a Bachelor's degree and then attend an accredited medical school. Upon graduating, they must gain experience as an intern and later complete their residency. All U.S. states require physicians to be licensed.
Physician Job Outlook: Opportunities for physicians is expected to grow faster than average. This is due to the increase in medical technology as well as the aging population. Family practice and internal medicine are two specialties that should experience the most growth.
Physician Salaries: Salaries range for physicians with the low end ranging from $132,953 up to $173,922. Physicians who specialize in anesthesiology earn an average of $259,948, surgeons earn an average of $228,839, and OB-GYN's typically earn about $203,270. Salaries are reported from the Medical Group Management Association.
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