Should I Become a Doctor
Doctors devote themselves to serving mankind. They provide healthcare services to those in need. There are many types of doctors who specialize in a certain area of medicine. You may know of Cardiologists, Neurologists, Physicians, Surgeons and Anesthesiologists and so on. All doctors do not have the same responsibilities however, doctors must take medical histories into consideration before giving a diagnosis and beginning any treatment.
Education Required | At least a doctoral or a professional degree |
Major Requirement | A doctor of medicine (MD) or related subject |
License/Certification | State issued license must be acquired |
Experience/Training | 3-7 years residency program must be completed |
Key Skills | Physical Stamina, Dexterity, Patience, Compassion, Problem-solving, Decision-making and Communication Skills etc. |
Annual Mean Salary – US (2020) | $218,850 (Physicians, All Other; and Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric) |
Annual Mean Salary – Indiana (2020) | $260,540 (Physicians, All Other; and Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric) |
Job Outlook – Indiana (2018-2028) | 9% (Physicians, All, Other) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Requirements
Patients rely on doctors for guidance and healthcare treatments which is why it is crucial for doctors to have empathy and compassion. Doctors mostly work long hours and have exhausting routines. They learn through hard decisions and must show leadership skills especially in an operation theatre. Doctors also need to play well in a team as they often collaborate with other healthcare professionals and carry out research to explore unchartered areas of medicine.
Steps to Become a Doctor in Indiana
After finding out what it takes to become a doctor, if you feel it is the right job for you then here is the education and training you must complete. Let’s get started!
- Graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree
Completing a 4-years bachelor’s degree in a subject related to biological sciences is considered as a pre-requisite to medical school.
- Taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
Completing a bachelor’s degree prepares you to take the MCAT exam and become eligible to enroll in medical school.
- Complete the Medical School Degree
After completing step 1 and 2, you can enroll in a 4 year Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree at a medical school. There are many medical schools in Indiana, such as the School of Medicine at the University of Indiana, that offer a 4-year MD degree.
- Residency
Graduates of medical school go on to complete a 3 to 7 year residency at a hospital which allows them to specialize in their area of interest.
- Indiana State License
The Medical Licensing Board of Indiana acts as the regulatory authority and provides license to doctors. All interested doctors must,
- Not have a criminal record
- Have an MD or doctor of osteopathy from an accredited medical school
- Passed the examination for licensure
- Submit an application with relevant documents and pay a fee
How Long Does It Take to Become a Doctor in Indiana?
To become a licensed doctor is a time taking process which may take at least 10 to12 years (or more). To work as a doctor, you must complete,
- 4-year MD or relevant degree at a medical school
- 3 to 7 years of residency at a hospital
- Sequence of national medical exams i.e., USMLE or other relevant exams.
- State guided process for licensure
What Are the Requirements of Becoming a Doctor in Indiana?
To become a doctor in Indiana, all candidates must have:
- Acquired the right education from a medical school
- Completed proper training via residency program
- Cleared a series of medical licensure examination
- Proof of a recent clinical practice
How Much Can I Make as a Doctor in Indiana?
As reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2019, Physicians, All Other; and Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric employed in the state of Indiana earned an annual mean salary of $244,980.
Career Outlook
According to the latest data published by O*Net Online, “Physicians, All Other” are expected to experience a stellar job growth of 9% from 2018 to 2028. This figure is higher than the national average of 5%.