Gathering knowledge and polishing the right skillset required to become a practicing medical professional in Ohio takes up a great deal of effort, time and energy. That is why it is essential to inquire about the preparation procedure beforehand. To understand who doctors are, what they do and how to become a doctor in Ohio, let’s take a look at this guide.
Should I Become a Doctor
Expert medical and health professionals whose job is to examine, diagnose and provide relevant treatments to patients are called doctors. There are several kinds of doctors as they can specialize in a particular area during their residency based on their area of interest. For instance, doctors may specialize as, Physicians, Surgeons, Pediatricians, Neurologists and so on. Although the specific job descriptions of doctors vary based on their set of expertise, a few common duties such as, asking for medical histories before diagnosing, getting relevant medical tests, providing the right treatment and medications etc. are done by all doctors.
| Major Requirement | Doctor of Medicine (MD) or another related subject |
| License/Certification | State issued license |
| Experience/Training | Residency |
| Key Skills | Patience, Physical Stamina, Dexterity, Compassion; problem-solving, Leadership, Decision-making and Communication Skills etc. |
| Annual MeanSalary-(2019)-National | $218,850 (Physicians, all other and Ophthalmologists, except Pediatric) |
| Job Outlook (2020-2030) | 3% (Physicians and Surgeons) |
| Annual MeanSalary-(2020)-OH | $223,960 (Physicians, all other and Ophthalmologists, except Pediatric) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2019)
Career Requirements
Doctors must show compassion and patience towards their patients and the families. Their job is challenging and they work long hours. They are required to make critical decisions on a routine basis especially those who work in the operation theatre. Although it is a demanding and stressful career, it is also very rewarding when the patients respond positively to the administered treatment.
Steps to Become a Doctor in Ohio
If you have the resilience it takes to serve people and save their lives as a doctor, then follow this detailed guide to get started.
- Completing a Bachelor’s Degree
Before you can attend a medical school to become a doctor, you need to complete a 4-year bachelor’s degree in a subject related to biological sciences.
- Clearing the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
All graduates with a bachelor’s degree are required to take the MCAT exam to become eligible for enrollment in medical school.
- Enrolling in a Medical School
With your bachelor’s degree and the MCAT, you can enroll in a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree at a medical school. It takes 4-years to complete medical school. For more details, please visit the official website of your desired university.
- Completing a Residency
Medical school is followed by a 3 to 7 year period of residency at a hospital. Medical students acquire experience in their area of interest via a residency program.
- Getting an Ohio State License
- Provide the Federation Credentials Verification Service (FCVS)
- Clear the FBI and the Ohio BCI Background Record Checks
- Submit the Ohio Physician Licensure Application and pay a fee
The Ohio Medical Board issues license to doctors who fulfill the criteria described below. All interested candidates must,
How Long Does It Take to Become a Doctor in Ohio?
Becoming a practicing doctor is a long journey which may take anywhere from 10 to12 years (or may be more). Doctors should complete a,
- 4-years bachelor’s degree and pass the MCAT
- 4-year MD or a relevant degree at a medical school
- 3 to 7 years of Residency
- Series of national medical exams i.e., USMLE etc.
- Ohio state procedure for licensure
What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Doctor in Ohio?
To become a doctor in Ohio, all candidates must have:
- Completed the require medical education and training
- Passed an acceptable medical licensure examination sequence
- Have recent clinical practice
How Much Can I Make as a Doctor in Ohio?
As reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Physicians, all other and Ophthalmologists, except Pediatric, employed in the state of Ohio had an annual mean salary of $213,930 in 2019.
Career Outlook for Doctors in Ohio
According to the latest figures provided by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Physicians, All Other; and Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric” in Ohio earned $223,960 as mean annual salary in 2020. As per O*Net Online the category of “Physicians, All Other” is expected to experience 5% job growth in Ohio between 2018 and 2028.