Medical Professions
The medical field is a vast industry. Many who endeavor to pursue a medical career, do so out of a desire to help others. Depending on what you want to do, there are different lengths of schooling and training involved. Here is an overview of some different medical positions.
Doctor
A medical doctor is licensed to diagnose and treat ailments. As a doctor you can work for a hospital, volunteer with a missionary organization, or work independently, opening a practice. There is a broad range of doctors that focus on a particular age group or specialize in a specific field. For example, if you enjoy working with kids you can become a pediatrician, and if you want to specialize in cardiology, you can become a cardiologist. A general practitioner is required to go to school for about eight years; a specialist needs 12 years of education.
Nurse
A nurse works closely with doctors and patients to assist in patient care. Though doctors diagnose, nurses do most of the hands on work when it comes to administering medications and taking care of patients directly. You can become a licensed vocational nurse with two years of schooling or become a registered nurse, which requires additional training.
X-ray Technician
X-ray technicians are responsible for performing x-rays ordered by doctors. This training takes about two years, longer if you want to become a radiologist.
Anesthesiologist
Anesthesiologists are doctors that are in charge of administering anesthesia for surgery. To become an anesthesiologist, obtain your bachelor's degree and then transfer to a medical school; this process takes about 11 years.
Medical Assistant
Medical assistants gather patient information and take vitals: blood pressure and respiration, for example. Medical assistants perform secretarial and clerical tasks as well as medical assistance. You can become a medical assistant in one to two years.
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