Description

A doctor of internal medicine (also known as a physician of internal medicine) specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing the various diseases and conditions that affect the human body’s internal organs. Doctors of internal medicine may also specialize in a variety of different areas, such as cardiology, sports medicine, infectious disease, or geriatrics. They may work in medical offices, clinics, and hospitals; they may also open their own private practice or partner with other doctors to form a group practice. It is fairly common doctors of internal medicine to work part-time in several different facilities. Their hours vary depending on their chosen work environment, although these physicians typically work over 40 hours per week and are on call for medical emergencies. In private practice, these physicians may work comparatively fewer hours but spend additional time completing administrative tasks.To become a doctor of internal medicine, a medical doctorate (M.D.) is required. To obtain this degree, four years of medical school are required after earning a bachelor’s degree. After the M.D. is earned, a one-year internship and three years as a resident in a medical setting are required before a license to practice medicine is issued. If the doctor of internal medicine decides to pursue a specialization, they are required to complete an additional one to three years of training. Doctors of internal medicine must pass several certification and licensing exams and are required to pass oral and written exams to become “board certified” by their local licensing board.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Physician/Doctor, Internal Medicine with 3-6 years of experience in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

  • Diagnosing and treating a wide range of medical conditions, including chronic diseases and acute illnesses, through thorough physical examinations and medical tests.
  • Developing and implementing personalized treatment plans for patients, which may involve prescribing medications, recommending lifestyle changes, or referring to specialists.
  • Monitoring and managing patients' progress, conducting regular follow-up visits, and adjusting treatment plans as necessary to ensure optimal health outcomes.
  • Collaborating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams, including nurses, specialists, and other healthcare professionals, to provide comprehensive and coordinated patient care.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Physician/Doctor, Internal Medicine, the following qualifications are required:

  • A candidate must possess a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited medical school. This forms the foundation of their medical knowledge and expertise.
  • Completion of a residency program in internal medicine is essential. This provides practical experience and specialized training in diagnosing and treating adult patients with various medical conditions.
  • It is crucial for a physician to be board-certified in internal medicine. This certification demonstrates a high level of expertise and ensures that the doctor has met the standards set by a recognized medical board.
  • A physician in internal medicine must possess excellent diagnostic skills to accurately identify and treat complex medical conditions.

Essential Skills For Physician / Doctor, Internal Medicine

1

Medical Technology

2

Medicines Management

3

Critical Evaluation

Career Prospects

For a Physician/Doctor specializing in Internal Medicine with 3-6 years of experience in Canada, there are several alternative roles worth considering. Here are four options to explore:

  • Medical Researcher: A role focused on conducting research studies, analyzing data, and contributing to medical advancements in the field of Internal Medicine.
  • Medical Consultant: A position that involves providing expert advice and guidance to healthcare organizations, pharmaceutical companies, or insurance companies on matters related to Internal Medicine.
  • Medical Educator: A role in academia, teaching medical students, residents, or fellows, and sharing knowledge and expertise in Internal Medicine.
  • Hospital Administrator: A position that involves overseeing the operations and management of a healthcare facility, including budgeting, staffing, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

How to Learn

The job role of Physician/Doctor, Internal Medicine is expected to experience steady growth in the Canadian market with increasing demand for healthcare services. Over the past 10 years, this role has witnessed consistent growth due to an aging population and advancements in medical technology. According to recent data, employment opportunities in this field are projected to increase in the coming years. With an increasing need for primary care physicians and specialists, there will be a substantial number of employment opportunities available for physicians specializing in Internal Medicine in Canada.