How to Become a General Physician
A career in medicine is a difficult and challenging endeavor that requires years of study and great focus and determination. This article will outline the necessary steps for you to become a general physician. Read on to get an early start in your professional path.
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Instructions
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Build a community service record. Volunteer at a clinic, hospital or medical facility to build community-service hours and learn if a career in medicine is right for you.
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Earn a 4-year degree. Earn an undergraduate degree with a major in medicine. Ascertain that the school has a strong premed program before you enroll. Complete the following coursework: chemistry, organic chemistry, biology, physics, English, calculus and math, in addition to any other required or prerequisite coursework.
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Prepare for the Medical School Admissions Test. Use online resource materials and other study guides to prepare for the MSAT. The exam consists of: verbal reasoning (reading comprehension), physical sciences (chemistry and physics),biological sciences (organic chemistry and biology) and a writing sample (two essay questions). Take several practice tests before taking the MSAT to increase your familiarity with the format of the exam.
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Complete medical school. Excel in the areas of medical history, diagnosis and treatment, and general medicine. Move on to supervised practical experience in clinics and hospitals before entering a residency program.
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Begin your residency. Generally, a residency training period will begin sometime in July and last for about three years.
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Work under senior residents to master and excel in the area of general medicine. Work to establish a strong bedside manner that wins patients and stabilizes hostile exchanges during times of grief.
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Pass the USMLE. Take the USMLE while in residency. The state-certified exam will allow you to practice medicine as a general physician.
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Apply for a full-time position as a general physician. Apply for a position with the hospital where you completed your residency or visit a career website like HotJobs.com to search and apply for employment. You can also open your own medical practice or join an already established practice to build a client base.
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Tips & Warnings
Expect to spend 7 to 10 years studying to become a general physician, and then continuing to take additional coursework and classes throughout the life of your career.
Expect to work an average of 60 to 70 hours per week.
