Are you considering a career in medicine? While many students dream of becoming a doctor, they often don’t realize that a career in medicine involves choosing a specific area of practice. There are countless medical specialties available, and as you embark on your future, it can be difficult to choose which discipline is the best fit for your goals.
In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the different medical fields, from primary care physicians to specialized surgeons. Whether you’re an ambitious high schooler thinking about BS/MD programs or a college graduate preparing your med school application, we have a complete list of different doctor types, along with the qualifications each role requires, job environment specifics, and salary averages. Read on to jumpstart your career in medicine!
Understanding Doctor Specialization
While you don’t have to choose a specialty until you’re in medical school, learning about the different types of doctors can help you tailor your education to your professional goals, both in high school and as a college pre-med major. Your specialty will also help you decide which medical schools to apply to.
So, why do doctors specialize in the first place? The human body is extremely complex, and it’s impossible for anyone to know everything about every body part. In order to give patients the best care possible, the medical field is divided into different doctor types with their own focuses. Primary care physicians are equipped to handle common medical concerns and ensure overall patient health, but there are dozens of other doctor specialties to address more specific health issues, including cancer, neurology, and orthopedics.
The Two Types of Medical Degrees
In order to become a doctor, you will need to go to medical school. There, you can choose between Y two types of degrees:: a Doctor of Medicine (MD) and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). Each degree has different requirements, and the degree you receive can affect the specialties you can pursue.
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
An MD degree focuses on allopathic medicine, the process of diagnosing and treating disease. MDs are more likely to go on to become specialists in specific conditions or conduct medical research. Before you can get into an MD program, you will need a bachelor’s degree in any related field. Plus, you’ll need to pass the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT).
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
A DO degree takes a holistic approach to medicine, considering the patient’s overall wellbeing, including their lifestyle and environment. DOs receive additional training in the musculoskeletal system and osteopathic manipulative treatment, which uses hands-on techniques to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury.
Entry into a DO program requires a bachelor’s degree in a related field and passing the MCAT. DOs are fully licensed physicians who can prescribe medications, perform surgeries, and practice in all medical specialties. They often work in primary care, but they can also specialize in fields like surgery, pediatrics, and emergency medicine.
What are the Different Types of Doctors?: An Overview of Specialties and Salaries
Now, let’s explore the different types of doctors, what they do, and their average salary so that you can make an informed choice about your med school speciality.
1. Epidemiologist
National average salary: $103,033
Epidemiologists study diseases, what causes them, and how they spread. Medical epidemiologists focus on looking for cures for specific diseases, including medications and vaccines.
2. Allergist & Immunologist
National average salary: $322,955
An allergist or immunologist focuses on immune system disorders. They specialize in diagnosing, treating, and evaluating conditions like allergies, lupus, and psoriasis.
3. Anesthesiologist
National average salary: $494,522
Anesthesiologists are doctors who mitigate pain during treatments and surgical procedures. They’re the ones who “put you to sleep” before major surgery, but they can also administer numbing agents for less intensive procedures. During operations, anesthesiologists monitor a patient’s vital signs to make sure that they are responding well to the anesthesia, and they are trained to handle mid-surgery emergencies, such as breathing problems.
4. Cardiologist
National average salary: $565,485
Cardiologists focus on diseases and illnesses stemming from the cardiovascular (heart and blood) system. T These doctor types leverage cutting-edge technology to offer non-invasive diagnosis and treatment options.
5. Dermatologist
National average salary: $493,659
Dermatologists are doctors who treat skin issues, like acne, moles, and hyperpigmentation. Within the dermatology field, some dermatologists focus only on medical concerns, whereas others prioritize cosmetic treatments and minor plastic surgery. Many dermatology practices incorporate both doctor types, with some practitioners focusing on cosmetology and others handling medical skin conditions.
6. Emergency Physician
National average salary: $398,990
Being an emergency physician is one of the most stressful careers in the medical field; however, it can also be one of the most rewarding. Since emergency physicians serve patients in the emergency room, they have to make quick decisions and stay calm under pressure If you are comfortable working in a challenging, fast-paced environment, becoming an emergency physician can give you the chance to save lives.
7. Plastic Surgeon
National average salary: $619,812
Plastic surgeons are doctors who surgically reconstruct, repair, or alter bodies. . While they may initially sound similar to dermatologists, plastic surgeons conduct large-scale surgery, whereas dermatologists are only equipped to conduct minor surgery, like mole removals or face lifts. . Most of the time, plastic surgeons help patients reconstruct their bodies after life-altering injuries or illnesses. However, some plastic surgeons build practices that focus primarily on cosmetic procedures.
8. General Surgeon
National average salary: $464,071
A general surgeon is a doctor who specializes in performing surgery. As their name implies, general surgeons have a broad knowledge of the body and the various diseases and conditions that might require an operation.
9. Neurologist
National average salary: $348,365
A neurologist is a doctor who specializes in the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and related muscles. Neurologists help patients with Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, strokes, and other neurological conditions.
10. Obstetrician & Gynecologist
National average salary: $382,791
Obstetricians and gynecologists specialize in healthcare for people with uteruses. OBs focus on childbirth, caring for parents before, during, and after pregnancy. Gynecologists handle more general care for the internal reproductive system, helping patients navigate hormonal changes and personal health..
11. Ophthalmologist
National average salary: $468,581
An ophthalmologist is a doctor who specializes in eye and vision care. While ophthalmologists can conduct routine eye exams and prescribe glasses and contacts, they mostly specialize in treating complex visual conditions, like cataracts or glaucoma..
12. Orthopedic Surgeon
National average salary: $654,815
Orthopedic surgeons focus on the spine. They preserve and restore your spine’s form and function, dealing with musculoskeletal issues that stem from injuries, diseases, and more. This doctor type often works with innovative technology to inform treatment plans and care.
13. Pediatrician
National average salary: $259,579
Pediatricians are doctors who treat children. Their job takes a holistic approach, ensuring a child’s emotional, physical, and social health needs are met. Pediatricians administer vaccinations, treat illnesses, and engage in preventative care to mitigate behavioral and developmental problems early on in a child’s life.
14. Preventive Medicine Physician
National average salary: $282,011
Preventative medicine physicians don’t just react to new illnesses or injuries; they find proactive ways to keep patients healthy. They focus on preventing diseases and monitoring health issues and disabilities, but their job can extend to public health initiatives, biostatistics, health services management, and more.
15. Psychiatrist
National average salary: $332,976
A psychiatrist is a doctor who can diagnose and treat mental health conditions. While other mental health professionals, like licensed social workers, can provide talk therapy, a psychiatrist’s medical degree qualifies them to prescribe medication and conduct advanced psychotherapeutic treatment. Psychiatrists often specialize in specific mental conditions, such as addiction, schizophrenia, anxiety, or depression.
16. Nephrologist
National average salary: $365,323
Nephrologists treat kidney diseases. They focus on acute and chronic kidney issues, such as kidney failure, as well as fluid and mineral imbalances related to kidney diseases. They also know how to treat high blood pressure, as many kidney issues can lead to hypertension.
17. Pathologist
National average salary: $360,315
Pathologists focus on studying a disease and its causes. This doctor type is distinct from epidemiologists in that it focuses on the disease’s effects on the body rather than how it spreads. Pathology has a strong research component; it involves a lot of lab work to test body cells, secretions, fluids, and tissues.
18. Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Physician
National average salary: $376,925
Rehabilitation physicians work with patients with physical disabilities. They take a holistic perspective to health, helping patients develop personalized treatment plans to recover from acute injuries or major surgeries and manage long-term disabilities.
19. Radiation Oncologist
National average salary: $569,170
A radiation oncologist treats cancer through ionizing radiation. Radiation oncologists help patients determine whether radiation therapy is the right choice for them, and then they oversee customized treatment plans that involve different radiotherapies and associated medications, like chemotherapy.
20. Radiologist
National average salary: $531,983
Radiologists diagnose and treat diseases through imaging. Radiologists conduct x-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds, and they can specialize in specific techniques, such as mammography.
21. Endocrinologist
National average salary: $291,481
An endocrinologist treats the endocrine system: the network of glands and organs that produce and secrete hormones in the body. Endocrinologists typically focus on hormonal conditions, like diabetes, reproductive issues, and conditions relating to the thyroid, pituitary, and adrenal glands. .
22. Gastroenterologist
National average salary: $514,208
Gastroenterologists are doctors who focus on the digestive organs, including the gallbladder, liver, pancreas, and stomach. Gastroenterologists treat patients with conditions like acid reflux, Celiac disease, stomach ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome.
23. Urologist
National average salary: $529,140
A urologist treats issues directly related to the urinary tract and its associated organs, such as the kidneys, reproductive system, adrenal glands, and bladder. Urologists often collaborate with other doctor types, like nephrologists and OBGYNs, as part of a patient’s healthcare team.
24. General Practitioner
National average salary: $205,287
When you think about going to the doctor, you are normally thinking about a general practitioner. Also known as primary care physicians or family doctors, general practitioners are the first point of contact for most patients. They provide comprehensive healthcare, diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, as well as offering guidance on general health and wellness. GPs also help guide patients through the healthcare system, referring them to specialists when necessary.
25. Geriatric Physician
National average salary: $289,201
Geriatric physicians specialize in the healthcare of elderly patients, addressing the complex medical needs associated with aging. They manage chronic conditions, dementia, and mobility issues, focusing on improving the quality of life for their patients. Geriatricians often work closely with families and caregivers to provide holistic,compassionate care.
26. Oncologist
National average salary: $479,754
Oncologists focus on the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. They work directly with patients, their families, and other doctor types, like radiation oncologists, to develop custom treatment plans to eradicate or manage the disease.
27. Otolaryngologist (ENT Specialist)
National average salary: $502,543
Otolaryngologists, or ENT specialists, focus on disorders related to the ear, nose, and throat. They treat conditions like hearing loss, sinus issues, and throat conditions, and they also support vocal professionals like singers, actors, and public speakers. ENT specialists provide both noninvasive and surgical treatment options to support sensory, respiratory, and vocal functions.
28. Podiatrist
National average salary: $152,800
Podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot, ankle, and lower extremities. They address acute issues like sports injuries and fractures, as well as chronic conditions like diabetes-related foot problems. Podiatrists use both surgical and non-surgical methods to help patients maintain mobility and reduce pain.
29. Rheumatologist
National average salary: $305,502
Rheumatologists focus on diseases that affect the joints, muscles, and bones, such as arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune conditions. They use a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy to manage symptoms, improve mobility, and maximize quality of life.
30. Neonatologist
National average salary: $338,024
Neonatologists are pediatricians who specialize in the care of newborns, particularly premature or ill infants. They work in neonatal intensive care units, where they monitor patients and provide life-saving treatments. Neonatologists collaborate with a team of healthcare professionals to ensure the best outcomes for newborns and their families.
31. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
National average salary: $603,623
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons perform complex surgeries on the mouth, jaws, and face. They handle a variety of issues, including impacted teeth, facial trauma, and congenital deformities. These surgeons work with dental health professionals and other doctor types, including plastic surgeons, to help address a patients’functional and cosmetic needs.
32. Public Health Specialist
National average salary: $269,000
Public health specialists are doctors who focus on improving community health and preventing diseases before they occur. Instead of working in clinical settings, they collaborate with government agencies, educational institutions, and healthcare organizations to shape legislation and policy decisions, developing critical public health initiatives and programs to prevent illness and injury.
33. Internal Medicine Doctor
National average salary: $312,526
Internal medicine doctors, or internists, specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a broad spectrum of adult illnesses that affect the internal organs. They develop a deep understanding of complex medical conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and lung conditions. Internists often act as primary care providers, coordinating comprehensive care and managing chronic illnesses for their patients.
34. Pulmonologist
National average salary: $410,905
Pulmonologists are medical specialists who focus on respiratory system disorders. They diagnose and treat conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia, and other breathing-related issues. Pulmonologists often perform specialized procedures, such as bronchoscopies, and work closely with other doctor types, like radiologists and surgeons, to manage complex respiratory conditions.
35. Critical Care Doctor (Intensivist)
National average salary: $317,715
Critical care doctors, also known as intensivists, specialize in the care of critically ill patients in intensive care units. They manage life-threatening conditions like severe injuries, infections, and organ failures. Intensivists work in high-pressure environments where they are often called on to make crucial decisions and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to ensure the best possible outcomes for their patients.
36. Hematologist
National average salary: $392,260
Hematologists specialize in diagnosing and treating blood disorders and diseases, such as anemia, clotting disorders, leukemia, and lymphoma. They help patients develop personalized care plans and perform treatments like blood transfusions and bone marrow biopsies.
37. Geneticist
National average salary: $244,517
Geneticists are doctors who study genes and hereditary traits, helping diagnose and manage genetic disorders. Geneticists typically do not spend a lot of time interacting directly with patients. Instead, they often work in laboratories, where they conduct research and genetic testing to understand conditions like cystic fibrosis, Down syndrome, and other inherited diseases.
38. Sleep Medicine Physician
National average salary: $200,000
Sleep medicine physicians, also known as somnologists, diagnose and treat sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, and narcolepsy. They conduct sleep studies and develop treatment plans to improve patients’ sleep quality and overall health.
39. Sports Medicine Physician
National average salary: $200,890
Sports medicine physicians focus on the treatment and prevention of injuries related to sports and exercise. They work with athletes of all levels, from amateurs to professionals, to help them recover from injuries, improve performance, and maintain overall health.
40. Hyperbaric Physician
National average salary: $188,684
Hyperbaric physicians specialize in hyperbaric medicine, using high-pressure oxygen chambers to treat conditions like decompression sickness, non-healing wounds, carbon monoxide poisoning, and certain infections. Similar to other doctor types, like emergency physicians and intensivists, hyperbaric physicians handle acute, life-threatening issues.
41. Thoracic Surgery
National average salary: $720,634
Thoracic surgeons are highly specialized medical professionals who focus on chest surgeries. They perform intricate surgical procedures to treat life-threatening conditions such as lung cancer, esophageal disorders, and complex cardiovascular diseases Thoracic surgeons work in a demanding and high-stakes environment, frequently collaborating with cardiologists and pulmonologists to deliver comprehensive care. Their expertise is crucial in improving survival rates and quality of life.
42. Toxicologist
National average salary: $107,239
Toxicologists study the effects of chemicals, toxins, and other substances on humans, animals, and the environment. A career in toxicology can involve a variety of different roles, from working directly with patients to shaping public policy. Depending on their specialty, toxicologists can help identify and treat poisoning, develop safety standards, and/or conduct research on harmful substances.
43. Transplant Surgeon
National average salary: $510,000
Transplant surgeons specialize in performing organ transplants, such as kidney, liver, heart, and lung transplants. They manage the surgical procedures, preoperative and postoperative care, and coordinate with other specialists to ensure successful patient outcomes.
44. Pain Management Specialist
National average salary: $429,390
Pain management specialists focus on diagnosing and treating chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia, endometriosis, and multiple sclerosis. They use a variety of techniques, including medication management, physical therapy, nerve blocks, and minimally invasive procedures to help patients manage pain and improve their quality of life.
45. ColorectalSurgeon
National average salary: $455,282
Colorectal surgeons diagnose and treat conditions affecting the lower digestive tract, including the colon, rectum, and anus. They perform surgeries to address issues like colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and diverticulitis, with an emphasis on minimally invasive techniques.Colorectal surgeons often work closely with other doctor types, including gastroenterologists and oncologists, to provide comprehensive patient care.
How to Choose a Medical Doctor Specialization
If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by all these doctor types, it’s normal! Many students who are passionate about healthcare don’t realize how many different specialities they can choose from.
Here are some tips for how to choose the right medical doctor specialization for you:
- Consider your interests. Ask yourself, what are you passionate about? Are there particular fields of science or medicine that interest you? If you are fascinated by a specific topic, that may be your future medical speciality!
- Factor in your skills. Do you thrive in high-pressure environments? Are you good at communicating with people? Do you want to work in a clinical setting or a more public-facing role? Different doctor types require different skills, so think about your strengths and weaknesses as you compare specialties.
- Ask professionals in the field. Talk to different doctors about their experiences to see what the field actually entails. Some doctors may even let you shadow them!
- Conduct research. While many doctors work directly with patients, others focus on research. A medical research opportunity can help you learn more about different doctor types through conducting important research alongside professional mentors.
- Complete an internship. Look for medical internships that can give you hands-on experience in different specialties.
As you do more research and gain some real-world experience, your doctor specialty will become clear!
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