Often times people wonder what makes one physician more credible than another. Besides the obvious answers of where they attended medical school and their bedside manor lies one, very important factor; continuing education.
In order to become a doctor one must spend 4 years as an undergraduate, 4 years at medical school and then you will be in residency for 3-5 years depending on the specialty you choose. Once your residency is complete you have a choice; begin practicing medicine or continue your education with fellowship training in your desired subspecialty. The best of the best move forward with receiving this subspecialty training. For example, if you specialize in orthopedics and as a fellow you want to become a shoulder surgeon you would obtain your fellowship in shoulder surgery. This means that you would now be considered an expert in performing procedures related to the shoulder.
Some specialties physicians can receive fellowship training in include, but are not limited to:
- Neonatology
- Orthopedics
- Cardiologist
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Disease
- Critical Care Medicine
- Oncology
- Pulmonology
So, if you are someone who likes to research your potential doctor take some time to read their biography of curriculum vitae. Both are a great way to get a good look at their education history!