Health Careers: Pediatricians

 By Athena Corbishley

Photo via mezianiceline

What is a Pediatrician?

A pediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in children, infants, and teenagers. Babies, from when they are first born, continuing to their 21st birthday, receive care from a pediatrician. Pediatricians treat and diagnose illnesses, perform regular check-ups, and prevent health issues in children. 

What Education Does it Require?

To become a pediatrician, one requires a minimum of nine years of school (post-high school degree). First, you would take a pre-med route during your undergraduate studies. You would be required to fulfill certain medical classes to apply to medical school. During undergrad, you can major in anything; common majors for pediatricians are biology, chemistry, and psychology. You must also prepare and take the MCAT, a standardized test required for medical school applicants. Once you are accepted into medical school, you spend the next four years studying coursework related to medicine. The last two years of medical school are more clinically based, and you get experience in various medical specialties. If you want to pursue a career in pediatrics post-medical school, you will get matched into a pediatric residency.  Residency is a prolonged period of supervised hands-on training. For pediatrics, residency typically lasts two to three years. Once you finish your residency, you can practice as a general pediatrician, or you can pursue fellowships and specialize in subspecialties. 

What is a Pediatrician's Role?

A pediatrician's job would include

• Performing regular checkups 
• Diagnose illnesses, injuries
• Prescribe medicine
• Give vaccinations
• Referring to specialists when needed
• Discussing with worried parents and understanding their concerns
• Educate parents

Positives vs Negatives

Positives	Negatives
-Shorter residency than most other medical specialties	-Lowest average salary out of the medical specialties
-considered one of the “happier” specialties. More flexibility and better work-life balance.	-You have to work with parents, not just children. They can be difficult, especially since they only want the best care for their sick child.
-less competitive field	-Communication with children can be challenging. This makes it harder to diagnose certain illnesses. They may also be difficult when receiving treatments.

Is This a Career For You?

Take this short quiz to find out if you would be a good fit for a career in pediatrics!  

1. Are you good at communicating with people? 
2. Are you interested in psychology?
3. Do you like searching for facts and solving problems?
4. Do you like working with kids?
5. Do you have strong patience?

If you answered yes to most of these questions, you should consider a career in pediatrics!