What does a Doctor do?
Doctors typically work for hospitals, urgent care facilities and private clinics to administer treatment and give patients health advice. They work with Nurses and other healthcare professionals to ensure their patients receive quality medical attention. Their job is to prescribe medications, refer patients to specialized medical professionals and conduct tests to diagnose injuries, illnesses or diseases. They may also admit patients to the hospital for significant injuries or illnesses.
Doctor skills and qualifications
A successful Doctor will have certain qualifications and skills in order to demonstrate their ability to perform the duties and responsibilities of the job effectively:
- An M.D. from an accredited medical school
- A current medical license
- Previous clinical experience beyond the required residency
- Board certification in a relevant specialization preferred
- A detail-oriented and compassionate approach with patients and staff
- Strong leadership and organization skills
- A well-developed ability to solve problems on their feet
- A high degree of physical stamina and dexterity needed to perform various treatments and accurately administer medications
Doctor salary expectations
A Doctor makes an average of $202,521 per year. Salary may depend on level of experience, education and the geographical location.
Doctor salary expectations
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Common salary:
217174.56 YEARLY -
Typical salaries range from
51000.00 -499000.00 YEARLY - Find more information on Indeed Salaries
*Indeed data –
Doctor education and training requirements
Doctors need a bachelor’s degree, a medical degree and three to seven years in residency or a fellowship, depending on the specialization. While no specific major is required for the bachelor’s degree, most students usually choose a science such as biology or chemistry. In order to be accepted into a medical school, students must have completed their bachelor’s degrees and taken the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test). Most medical school programs last four years.
After completing medical school and residency requirements, applicants need to pass a standardized national licensure exam before being allowed to practice medicine.
Doctor experience requirements
Candidates need to complete a residency program or fellowship in a hospital before they can become licensed Doctors. Depending on the specialization, this will last anywhere from three to seven years. All applicants are required to have some experience before they can practice medicine in a primary care capacity. Students also usually receive some supervised practical training in a hospital during medical school, so all licensed candidates will already have some experience, regardless of how limited their professional experience may be.
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