Pediatric Doctor
Pediatric doctors are responsible for the health and well-being of children, from infancy through adolescence. They provide preventive care, diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries, and offer guidance to parents on how to keep their children healthy. Pediatric doctors work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
Education and Training
To become a pediatric doctor, you must first earn a bachelor's degree in a science field, such as biology, chemistry, or physics. After completing your bachelor's degree, you must take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and apply to medical school. Medical school takes four years to complete, and during that time you will learn about the human body, diseases, and how to treat them. After graduating from medical school, you will need to complete a three-year residency in pediatrics.
Skills and Qualities
Pediatric doctors need to have a strong understanding of the human body, diseases, and how to treat them. They also need to be able to communicate effectively with children and parents, and they need to be able to work independently and as part of a team. Other important qualities for pediatric doctors include: