A commitment to the good health of women is a requirement for a career in gynecology.
A career in gynecology is a career serving the health of women of all ages. A lucrative medical profession with rewards beyond monetary gain, gynecology is anticipated to realize job growth over the next decade. If you can demonstrate an aptitude in the sciences, have a superior work ethic and are committed to managing the reproductive health of women, a career in this growing medical field may be for you.
Job Description
Gynecologists are physicians who provide medical treatment to women, specific to the reproductive system. They diagnose illnesses and infections, conduct annual exams, prescribe medications, counsel patients on fertility options and birth control methods and treat hormonal and reproductive issues. Gynecologists who also practice Obstetrics (OB/Gyns) provide pre- and postnatal care, delivering infants.
Educational Requirements
To become a gynecologist, an individual must complete four years of undergraduate study, four years of an accredited medical school and an additional three to eight years of residency and internship. Undergraduate students generally have a premed concentration, taking classes in biology, chemistry, math and physics. Medical school acceptance is highly competitive and challenging; a candidate must complete the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), offer impressive transcripts and letters of recommendation, not to mention extracurricular activity involvement.
Residency, Licensure and Certification
Medical school graduates will complete a four year residency, which will include a one year internship. Residency programs in gynecology are often conducted at hospitals and provide on-the-job training to immerse a new doctor in all facets of the specialty. Sub-specialties such as gynecologic oncology may require an additional three years of residency. Upon graduation from an accredited medical school, all physicians must pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). Certfication is required of doctors who specialize and another examination will be required following residency for additional certification from the American Board of Medical Specialists or the American Osteopathic Association.
Median Salary and Job Growth
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook 2009 data, the median annual salary for a practicing gynecologist is more than $204,000. Gynecology is one of the highest paying medical specialties. Job growth for physicians is expected to be satisfactory at 22 perecent between 2008 and 2018. A number of physicians are anticipated to retire, expanding additional opportunities for up and coming gynecologists and doctors of other specialties.
Work Environment
A majority of gynecologists work in private practice offices or clinic settings, seeing patients during regular office hours. Physicians may be on call for weekends and evenings; the more doctors in a practice, the greater the opportunity for time off between on-call coverage. Gynecologists are often assisted by nursing, physician assistant and administrative staff.
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