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20 Types Of Doctors: The Differences And What They Do
Doctors have a wide array of specialties to choose from, each focusing on different aspects of the human body. The complexity of the body’s systems necessitates various medical experts, including those who specialize in the skin, nervous system, cardiovascular health, and reproductive health.
While pursuing a specialty typically requires extensive education and training, it provides an opportunity to delve deeply into an area of personal interest and to address specific medical concerns that patients may have been facing for some time.
Key Takeaways
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The highest-paid types of doctors include surgeons, dermatologists, and anesthesiologists.
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Select your medical specialty based on your interests regarding particular body systems or patient demographics.
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To start a career as a doctor, begin your preparations early, take your examinations seriously, and remain persistent in your pursuits.
20 Types of Doctors
This list highlights some of the more recognized medical specialties, though it is by no means exhaustive. There are numerous avenues for further specialization within each field. Here are some of the key types of doctors and their roles:
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General Practitioner
Average Annual Salary: $174,000A general practitioner is often the first point of contact for patients seeking non-surgical medical care. They assess a wide range of health issues and provide treatment or referrals to specialists as needed.
General practitioners also conduct routine physical exams and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care.
Excellent communication skills are crucial for general practitioners, as they must explain complex medical information in an easily understandable manner.
Requirements: Medical degree, active MD license in the practicing state, National Medical Doctor Certification.
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General Pediatrician
Average Annual Salary: $160,000A general pediatrician specializes in the healthcare of children from infancy through young adulthood. They provide regular check-ups, vaccinations, and treat illnesses specific to young patients.
Pediatricians focus on establishing a comprehensive medical history while guiding parents and children about health and wellness.
Skills in patience and empathy are essential for interacting effectively with young patients.
Requirements: Medical degree, active MD license in the practicing state, completion of a 3-4 year residency program, American Board of Pediatrics certification (renewed every ten years).
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Cardiologist
Average Annual Salary: $248,000A cardiologist specializes in diagnosing and treating heart and cardiovascular diseases in adults. Their responsibilities include managing disease prevention, conducting tests, and treating conditions such as heart attacks and rhythm disorders.
Effective communication is vital for cardiologists, as they must engage patients in discussions about lifestyle changes that can mitigate risk factors for heart disease.
Requirements: Medical degree, 3 years of internal medicine residency, 3-4 year cardiology fellowship, cardiology certification.
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Dermatologist
Average Annual Salary: $321,000A dermatologist specializes in skin health, addressing conditions from acne to skin cancer. They monitor treatment progress and work closely with patients throughout their care journey.
Requirements: Medical degree, 3 years of residency, 1-2 year fellowship, certification from the American Board of Dermatology.
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Anesthesiologist
Average Annual Salary: $321,000During medical procedures, anesthesiologists administer medications to manage pain effectively. Their role involves evaluating patients’ medical histories and educating them about anesthesia risks.
Requirements: Medical degree, anesthesiology residency, certification by the Board of Anesthesiology in the practicing state.
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Psychiatrist
Average Annual Salary: $201,000A psychiatrist specializes in mental health, diagnosing and treating psychological disorders. They may use talk therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, or medication to support patients.
Compassionate communication is essential for addressing the deep emotional issues patients may face.
Requirements: Medical degree, at least four years in an accredited residency, certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
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Emergency Room Doctor
Average Annual Salary: $169,000Emergency room doctors are crucial for treating life-threatening conditions. They must act quickly to stabilize patients and coordinate their transfer to specialized care.
Working in high-pressure situations requires calmness and decisive action.
Requirements: Medical degree, medical licensing in the practicing state, 3-4 year residency, Emergency Medical Certification renewed every ten years.
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Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OB/GYN)
Average Annual Salary: $271,000OB/GYNs focus on women’s health, providing care during pregnancy and diagnosing conditions affecting women’s reproductive health. They play a vital role in educating patients about their health.
Requirements: Medical degree, 3-7 year residency program, passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) and certification from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Radiologist
Average Annual Salary: $282,000Radiologists utilize imaging technologies like x-rays and MRIs to diagnose medical conditions. They collaborate with technicians and interpret imaging results to assist in patient diagnosis.
Requirements: Medical degree, 4-5 year residency, 1-2 year fellowship, medical licensing in the practicing state.
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Podiatrist
Average Annual Salary: $91,000Podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions of the feet, ankles, and lower legs. They may also perform surgeries and provide physical therapy recommendations.
Requirements: Medical degree in podiatric medicine, 2-4 year residency, state licensing, American Medical Board certification.
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Endocrinologist
Average Annual Salary: $227,000Endocrinologists focus on hormone-related disorders and diseases affecting the endocrine glands, diagnosing and treating conditions like thyroid disorders and infertility.
Requirements: Medical degree, 2-3 year residency, 2-3 year fellowship, certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine in endocrinology.
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Oncologist
Average Annual Salary: $207,000Oncologists specialize in diagnosing and treating cancer, managing treatment plans and leading teams to provide comprehensive care for cancer patients.
Requirements: Medical degree, residency in internal medicine, 2-year fellowship, state licensing, board certification.
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Immunologist
Average Annual Salary: $75,000Immunologists study the immune system, researching allergies and autoimmune diseases. They develop personalized treatment plans and therapies for patients with immune-related conditions.
Requirements: Medical degree, residency program, 3-year fellowship, certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Allergy and Immunology.
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Neurologist
Average Annual Salary: $257,000Neurologists specialize in disorders of the nervous system, diagnosing conditions like epilepsy and traumatic brain injuries. They conduct tests to evaluate patient health and coordinate treatments.
Requirements: Medical degree, one-year internship, 3-year residency, up to 8 years of fellowship, state licensing, and optional board certification.
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Surgeon
Average Annual Salary: $328,000Surgeons specialize in performing surgical procedures to address various health issues. They may focus on specific areas, such as pediatric or cardiothoracic surgery, and are involved in pre-operative and post-operative care.
Attention to detail and excellent dexterity are essential skills for surgeons.
Requirements: Medical degree, 3-year residency, fellowship, multi-year internship, continual education, certification, and specialization certification from the American Board of Surgery.
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Average Annual Salary: $148,000
Dentists specialize in oral health, diagnosing and treating issues related to teeth and gums. They perform various procedures, including root canals and extractions, while educating patients about oral hygiene.
Requirements: Obtain a D.D.S. or D.M.D., complete a 2 to 3-year residency, and pass the Integrated National Board Dental Examination.
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Annual Salary: $276,000
Otolaryngologists, or ENTs, specialize in disorders of the head and neck, treating conditions related to hearing, speech, and swallowing, and performing surgeries as needed.
Requirements: A medical degree and a five-year residency program, including surgical training, and passing an exam administered by the American Board of Otolaryngology.
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Annual Salary: $234,000
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors specializing in eye care, diagnosing and treating eye diseases, and performing surgical procedures. They often collaborate with optometrists to provide comprehensive patient care.
Requirements: A medical degree, 3 years of residency, and passing the necessary examinations to be certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology.
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Annual Salary: $243,000
Gastroenterologists specialize in the digestive system, treating conditions related to the intestines, liver, and pancreas, and performing endoscopic procedures as needed.
Requirements: A medical degree, 3 years of residency, and 3 years of fellowship. Additional fellowship years may be pursued for further specialization.
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Annual Salary: $222,000
Allergists specialize in diagnosing and treating allergies and immune disorders. They work closely with patients to identify allergens and develop effective treatment plans.
Requirements: A medical degree, a 3-year residency, and completion of an allergy and immunology fellowship, with certification from the American Board of Allergy and Immunology.
Tips for Starting a Career as a Doctor
While there is no guaranteed formula for becoming a doctor, here are some essential tips to help you succeed:
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Start Early. Begin focusing on your academic performance in high school and college. Strong grades will improve your chances of getting into a reputable medical school.
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Take Tests Seriously. From the MCAT to board examinations, view all tests as crucial milestones in your medical career. Prepare thoroughly for each.
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Stay Persistent. If you don’t secure a spot in medical school on your first attempt, don’t be discouraged. Many successful doctors face multiple application cycles. Use this time to enhance your resume with relevant experience.
Types of Doctors FAQ
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What are some of the most common types of doctors?
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How many types of doctors are there?
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What’s the difference between a specialist doctor and a general practitioner?
Common types of doctors include general practitioners, dentists, gynecologists, and ophthalmologists.
There are several hundred medical specialties and subspecialties, making it difficult to determine an exact number of types of doctors.
General practitioners provide comprehensive healthcare, while specialists focus on specific medical conditions. Patients are often referred to specialists for advanced care.
- Fields
- Types Of Engineering
- Types Of Lawyers
- Types Of It Jobs
- Jobs In Travel
- Best Airport Jobs
- Best Overnight Jobs
- Temp Jobs
- Jobs In Mental Health
- Union Jobs
- Civil Service Jobs
- Grocery Store Jobs
- The Most Common Jobs In America
- Summer Jobs
- Types Of Doctors
- Is Technology A Good Career Path
- Cannabis Industry Jobs
- Careers In Writing
Author
Sky Ariella is a professional freelance writer, originally from New York. She has been featured on websites and online magazines covering topics in career, travel, and lifestyle. She received her BA in psychology from Hunter College.
