People with injuries and disorders that cannot be treated by family physicians are referred to specialized physicians. These physicians are doctors who have taken their medical training one step further by focusing on one of 50 different specialization areas recognized in Canada. They might identify or treat diseases, study diseases in laboratories, or perform or supervise operations. Whatever their area of expertise, specialist physicians use their advanced knowledge of medicine to help people become well.
The Cool Things They Do:
- Diagnose and treat physical or mental health problems by examining medical history and interpreting tests, x-rays or exams as required
- Prescribe medicines or other treatments, or referring people for surgery
- Study the origins and root causes of diseases and their affects on the human body
- Teach medical students and other healthcare professionals
Working Conditions:
Specialist
physicians work in a variety of areas and
settings, such as medical offices, laboratories
or operating rooms. Many specialists, such
as cardiologists, surgeons, pediatricians,
psychiatrists, and anaesthesiologists work
in hospitals. Other specialists work in
private or group clinics and serve in hospitals
on an on-call basis. Their schedules are
irregular and demand many extra hours. Because
each day involves treating many different
people with their own unique problems, specialist
physicians must have a great deal of mental
concentration, emotional strength, and physical
strength. Many risk constant exposure to
disease and sickness.
Most Specialist Physicians Work In:
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Private or Group Practices
Personal Characteristics/Skills:
- Genuine interest in helping people
- Proficient knowledge of medicine and the ability to stay current in the trends and breakthroughs associated with their area of specialty
- Patience, empathy, emotional strength
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to instill confidence
- Strong ethical standards
- Passion and energy for their work
Education and Training Required (for Canada) :
Bachelor’s Degree and Doctor of Medicine certificate followed by 2-5 years of training in a given specialty and a 2-3 year residency program
Length of Study/Training (for Canada) : 8-16 years post-secondary depending on specialization
Certification (s) (for Canada) :
National: licensing by Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC)
Ontario : licensing by College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario
Helpful High School Courses:
- Math
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- English
Employment Prospects - VERY GOOD
Canada’s aging population requires an ever-increasing supply of medical services and the number of recent graduates will not likely meet the demand created. Rural and low-income areas and group practices/clinics provide the greatest opportunities for employment.
Earnings:
Average annual
salary: $100,000 to $200,000 depending on
place and region of practice.
|
