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Pediatrician

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

Pediatricians provide medical care to infants, children, and adolescents. They diagnose and treat illnesses, administer vaccinations, and offer guidance on health and wellness.

Average Salary

₹9,00,000

Growth

medium

Satisfaction

high

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Educational Requirements

Educational Path to Becoming a Pediatrician

To become a pediatrician in India, a rigorous educational journey is required. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

  • MBBS Degree:

    • The first step is to complete a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree. This is a 5.5-year program, including a one-year internship.

  • Internship:

    • A mandatory one-year rotating internship follows the MBBS degree, providing practical experience in various medical departments.

  • Postgraduate Degree (MD/DNB):

    • After MBBS, you need to pursue a postgraduate degree in Pediatrics. Options include:
      • Doctor of Medicine (MD) in Pediatrics: A three-year program focusing on in-depth knowledge and clinical skills in pediatric medicine.
      • Diplomate of National Board (DNB) in Pediatrics: Equivalent to an MD, this program is also three years long and emphasizes practical training.

  • Further Specialization (Optional):

    • For those wanting to specialize further, options include:
      • Fellowships in areas like Neonatology, Pediatric Cardiology, or Pediatric Neurology.
      • These programs typically last 1-3 years and provide advanced training in a specific area of pediatrics.

Key Skills to Develop

  • Strong Foundation in Medical Sciences: A solid understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology is crucial.
  • Clinical Skills: Proficiency in diagnosing and treating illnesses in children.
  • Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively with children and their parents.
  • Empathy and Patience: Essential qualities for dealing with young patients and their families.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to think critically and make informed decisions in challenging situations.
Study Path
Top Colleges

To pursue a career as a pediatrician in India, choosing the right college is crucial. Here are some of the top medical colleges known for their excellent programs in pediatrics:

  • All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi:

    • AIIMS is consistently ranked as one of the top medical colleges in India. It offers excellent MBBS and MD Pediatrics programs with experienced faculty and state-of-the-art facilities.

  • Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore:

    • CMC Vellore is renowned for its high academic standards and comprehensive medical education. The pediatrics department is particularly strong, offering excellent clinical exposure.

  • Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), New Delhi:

    • MAMC is a prestigious medical college with a long history of producing top medical professionals. Its pediatrics department is well-regarded for its research and clinical training.

  • Grant Medical College, Mumbai:

    • Located in Mumbai, Grant Medical College is one of the oldest medical institutions in India. It offers comprehensive MBBS and MD programs with a strong focus on practical training.

  • King George's Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow:

    • KGMU is a well-known medical university in Uttar Pradesh, offering a wide range of medical courses. The pediatrics department is known for its experienced faculty and research activities.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a College

  • Accreditation and Recognition: Ensure the college is recognized by the Medical Council of India (MCI).
  • Faculty and Infrastructure: Look for experienced faculty and well-equipped laboratories and hospitals.
  • Clinical Exposure: Choose a college that offers ample opportunities for hands-on clinical training.
  • Research Opportunities: Consider colleges with active research programs in pediatrics.
  • Location and Cost: Evaluate the location and affordability of the college based on your preferences and financial situation.
Fees

The cost of becoming a pediatrician in India involves expenses at different stages of education. Here’s a breakdown of the fees associated with each level:

  • MBBS Fees:

    • Government Medical Colleges: ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 per year.
    • Private Medical Colleges: ₹8,00,000 to ₹20,00,000 per year.

  • MD/DNB Pediatrics Fees:

    • Government Medical Colleges: ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 per year.
    • Private Medical Colleges: ₹5,00,000 to ₹15,00,000 per year.
    • DNB Programs: May vary depending on the hospital and institution, generally ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹3,00,000 per year.

Additional Expenses

  • Study Materials: Costs for textbooks, reference books, and online resources can range from ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 per year.
  • Coaching Classes: Many students opt for coaching classes to prepare for NEET-PG, which can cost between ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000.
  • Accommodation and Living Expenses: Depending on the location, these can range from ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 per month.

Financial Planning

  • Scholarships: Explore various scholarships offered by the government and private organizations to help fund your education.
  • Educational Loans: Consider taking an educational loan to cover the costs of tuition and living expenses.
  • Installment Plans: Some colleges offer installment plans for fee payment, making it easier to manage expenses.
Related Exams

To become a pediatrician in India, several key exams must be cleared at different stages of your medical education. Here’s a detailed overview:

  • NEET-UG:

    • The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) is the primary entrance exam for MBBS admissions in India. A high score is essential to secure a seat in a reputable medical college.

  • MBBS University Exams:

    • Throughout the 5.5-year MBBS program, you will need to pass regular university exams covering various medical subjects. These exams assess your understanding of the curriculum and clinical skills.

  • NEET-PG:

    • After completing MBBS, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Postgraduate) is required for admission to postgraduate programs like MD or DNB in Pediatrics. A good rank is crucial for securing a seat in your desired specialization and college.

  • DNB-CET:

    • Candidates opting for Diplomate of National Board (DNB) programs need to appear for the DNB Centralized Entrance Test. This exam is conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE).

  • Exit Exams (MD/DNB):

    • At the end of your MD or DNB program, you will need to pass exit exams, including theory and practical assessments, to be certified as a pediatrician.

Importance of Exam Preparation

  • Structured Study Plan: Develop a comprehensive study plan covering all relevant subjects.
  • Regular Practice: Solve previous years' question papers and mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Conceptual Clarity: Focus on understanding the underlying concepts rather than rote memorization.
  • Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest developments in the field of medicine.
Exam NameExam Date
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Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. Making a positive impact on children's lives.
  2. Intellectually stimulating and diverse cases.
  3. High job satisfaction from helping families.
  4. Opportunities for continuous learning and growth.
  5. Competitive salary and job security.
  6. Flexible work hours and settings possible.
  7. Respected and valued profession in society.
  8. Building long-term relationships with patients.
  9. Advancing pediatric healthcare through research.
  10. Opportunities for teaching and mentoring.

Cons

  1. Emotionally demanding due to sick children.
  2. Long and irregular working hours often required.
  3. High levels of stress and responsibility.
  4. Dealing with anxious and worried parents.
  5. Exposure to infectious diseases is common.
  6. Requires continuous learning to stay updated.
  7. Administrative tasks can be time-consuming.
  8. Ethical dilemmas in complex medical cases.
  9. Risk of burnout due to high workload.
  10. Limited work-life balance at times.