The amount of time required to become a doctor can depend on the type of specialty you choose. The type of specialty you select establishes the amount of time spent in a residency program once you receive your undergraduate degree and finish medical school. Before you decide to pursue becoming a physician, take time to consider if you’re willing to complete an education that goes beyond a four-year undergraduate degree and advance your career in medicine.
A doctor, also referred to as a “physician,” is mainly responsible for giving diagnoses and treatment plans to their patients. They also speak with patients about the symptoms they have as a result of their diagnosis, administer exams, order further tests, write prescriptions and make referrals to specialists if necessary. They also work with and train assistants who work within their practice to ensure they uphold administrative standards and are in compliance with regulations regarding patient confidentiality. You’ll need to have strong interpersonal, technical and time management skills to be successful in your career as a doctor.
