How to become a Pediatrician

Paediatricians are doctors who are specialised in children. They get intense training to interpret and manage issues in all domains, such as physical, developmental, behavioural and social issues, of infants, children and teenagers. A child who is below 18 years can benefit from a paediatrician. The special expertise for children is required because nature constantly reshapes them, they undergo changes and fluctuations in physical, mental and social situations. The role of a paediatrician begins from conception and through pregnancy. The several sub specialities in paediatrics are adolescence medicine, child abuse paediatrics, clinical informatics, neonatology, pain medicine, paediatric cardiology, paediatric critical care, paediatric haematology, paediatric oncology, sleep medicine, social paediatrics and many more.

• Examine patients regularly to evaluate their growth and development which is normal or not.
• Treat children with mild diseases, acute and chronic health conditions, and questions regarding growth and development.
• Collect, document and hold patient records, such as medical history, notes or outcomes of examinations.
• Prescribe, diagnose, and treat patient with therapy, medicine, vaccine and other advanced medical services to treat or prevent infant and child illness, disease or injury.
• Request, administer and interpret diagnostic tests to obtain medical details and to assess the diagnosis.
• Guide and counsel patients, parents, and members of the community about food, exercise, hygiene, and disease prevention.
• Explain process and discuss test results and treatment plans with patients and parents.
• Track the health and progress of patients, and reassess treatments as appropriate.
• Plan and implement healthcare services to help children and adolescents grow and improve mentally and physically.
• Guide and direct nurses, therapists, assistants, students, specialists and other medical staff’s activities.
• If required, refer patient to a medical specialist or other practitioner.
• Provide consulting services to other physicians.
• Perform operations on patients to remove, repair, or enhance functioning of diseased or injured body parts and systems.
• Perform research to study anatomy and create and assess drugs, treatments, or procedures for disease or injury prevention or control.
• Design, enforce or manage health programs or guidelines for prevention or treatment of injury or disease in hospitals, industries, or communities.
• Update the patient records and charts to show present results and treatments.
• Analyse the test results to assess any suspicious findings.
• Conduct annual check-ups, regular exams, and immunizations.
• Prepare government or organizations about the birth, death, and illness estimates, employee reviews, or patient medical status reports.

Paediatrician must be able to listen and communicate actively and attentively to the needs of the patients. They need to ask the right questions to interpret the information. They also regularly interact with other doctors and administrative staff. Thus, having good communication and interpersonal skills is necessary.

They must be sensitive, calm, polite, patient, and empathic to patients’ needs and concerns. They need to make their patients feel comfortable and let them know they care, which requires them to have emotional intelligence.

In order to find a diagnosis based on connecting different symptoms, it requires analytical thought, problem-solving, judgement, and decision-making skills. They must show dedication, eye for detail, self-discipline, spatial orientation, determination, persistence to commit to years of intense practice.

They need to be flexible with their treatment plans as not every type of treatment will work for every patient, thus, having the ability to be resourceful is essential. Extra patience may be essential for patients who are afraid of medical treatment. They must have empathy and compassion for patients dealing with what may be a troubling and alarming diagnosis. Lastly, they work long hours and spend much of their time on their feet, thus physical stamina is essential.

Salary of a Pediatricians is as follows :

• Minimum Monthly Salary: Entry-level Pediatricians can expect a monthly salary ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 75,000. These initial earnings are typical for individuals who have recently completed their medical education and are embarking on their careers in pediatric medicine.
• Maximum Monthly Salary: Highly experienced and specialized Pediatricians with advanced degrees, extensive clinical practice, and sub-speciality expertise may earn anywhere from INR 1,00,000 to INR 2,50,000 or more per month. Paediatricians working in renowned hospitals, academic medical centres, or private clinics may command higher salaries.
• Annual Salary: The annual salary for entry-level or junior Pediatricians could range from INR 6,00,000 to INR 9,00,000. As Pediatricians gain more experience, establish patient relationships, and pursue leadership roles, their annual income can increase from approximately INR 12,00,000 to INR 30,00,000 or higher.
• Highest Paying Jobs and Scope: Pediatricians specializing in critical care, neonatology, pediatric cardiology, or other sub-specialities often enjoy better salary prospects. Those practising in reputable children's hospitals, academic institutions, and healthcare facilities with advanced pediatric services may have enhanced earnings. The role of Pediatricians is vital in safeguarding the health and well-being of infants, children, and adolescents. With a growing emphasis on pediatric healthcare, child development, and preventive medicine, the demand for skilled Pediatricians is expected to remain strong. Paediatricians who continuously update their medical knowledge, adapt to evolving treatment approaches, and excel in compassionate patient care will likely have rewarding career growth opportunities in paediatrics.

Paediatricians are crucial in providing medical care and guidance for infants, children, and adolescents. They can find employment opportunities in various industries and settings related to pediatric healthcare. Here are some industries open for Pediatricians:

1. Hospitals and Medical Centers: Pediatricians are often employed in general hospitals, children's hospitals, and specialised medical centres, providing a wide range of healthcare services to young patients.
2. Private Practices and Clinics: Many Pediatricians establish private practices or join group practices, offering primary care and specialised pediatric services to local communities.
3. Academic and Research Institutions: Pediatricians can work in academic institutions, teaching medical students, residents, and fellows. They may also engage in pediatric research to advance medical knowledge.
4. Government and Public Health: Pediatricians may work for government agencies, public health departments, or organisations focused on child health and well-being. They contribute to vaccination programs, health education, and policy development.
5. Nonprofit Organisations: Pediatricians may join nonprofit organisations dedicated to child health, providing medical services to underserved communities, advocating for child health policies, and participating in humanitarian missions.
6. Specialised Pediatric Centers: Pediatric subspecialties such as pediatric cardiology, gastroenterology, and pediatric oncology have dedicated centres where Pediatricians with specialised training provide advanced care.
7. Telemedicine: With the rise of telemedicine, Pediatricians can offer virtual consultations and medical advice to patients and families remotely.
8. Pediatric Emergency Services: Pediatricians with expertise in emergency medicine can work in pediatric emergency departments, urgent care centres, or trauma centres.
9. Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs): Pediatricians specialising in neonatology can work in the NICUs of hospitals, providing critical care for newborns with medical complications.
10. Pediatric Rehabilitation Centers: Pediatricians with training in physical medicine and rehabilitation may work in centres focused on helping children with disabilities or chronic conditions improve their functional abilities.
11. Health Insurance Companies: Some health insurance companies employ Pediatricians for medical advisory roles, claims processing, and quality assurance.
12. Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Companies: Pediatricians may work as medical advisors for companies developing pediatric medications, vaccines, and medical devices.
13. Schools and Educational Institutions: Pediatricians can provide medical services in school health programs, ensuring the health and well-being of students.
14. Sports Medicine and Athletics: Pediatricians specialising in sports medicine can work with young athletes to prevent and manage sports-related injuries.
15. Adoption and Foster Care Agencies: Pediatricians may provide medical evaluations and care for children in adoption and foster care systems.