How to Become a Gastroenterologist in USA

A Gastroenterologist treats patients who have acute or chronic diseases within the digestive system. This includes issues in the stomach, colon, intestines, esophagus and other parts of the digestive track. These organs work with food and allow the body to use nutrients.

Gastroenterologist Schools Near Me

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Gastroenterologist work with patients suffering from rare and common cases regarding the digestive track. These professionals work individually and as a part of a team. Their work hours are irregular and long, like all other doctors.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics does not provide the career outlook for Gastroenterologist; however, the broader category of Physicians and Surgeons is expected to witness a growth of 3% from 2020-2030. The growing and ageing population will play an important role in the growth of the profession. People will seek doctors’ services more often due to the rise of chronic illnesses.

1. Obtain an Undergraduate Degree

Students have to earn an undergraduate degree as a first step to becoming a Gastroenterologist. Even though there is no pre-medical major required, students should choose a discipline which helps them gain knowledge related to the field of health and medicine. They are also required to take mandatory courses like organic chemistry, mathematics and biology, etc.

2. Give the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT)

Students have to take the MCAT to get enrolled in a medical college. It assesses students’ scientific knowledge, verbal reasoning and academic capacity.

3. Obtain a Graduate Degree

Medical school is a 4-year program. It is a combination of classroom learning and clinical practice. During these 4 years students study various topics like pharmacology, medical ethics, anatomy and physiology, etc. In the last two years, they gain hands-on-experience in multiple specialty areas.

4. Obtain Licensure

Students are required to pass the US Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). While other requirements may vary according to the state.

5. Gain Residency Training

Aspiring gastroenterologists have to get residency training in internal medicine. This program allows students to learn the working of internal body and prepares them for advanced training and practice. Residents rotate in different departments during the training.

6. Serve a Fellowship

Professionals serve a fellowship to gain expertise in their chosen area of specialty. For gastroenterologists, the program lasts for at least 18 months.

7. Get Certified

Although it is not compulsory, some gastroenterologists elect to get certified. They obtain a certificate in internal medicine from the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) before they can pursue a certificate in gastroenterology.

8. Continue Learning

Gastroenterologists have to continue the process of education to get their license renewed. They have to take advance courses for this.
Professionals who join associations like the American Gastroenterological Association are provided access to multiple opportunities, like continuing education.

These professionals have to complete 8 years of education inclusive of 4 years of undergraduate and 4 years of graduate program. They need to complete their medical residency and a fellowship program as well.

Following are the requirements to become a Gastroenterologist:

 

As per the latest data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean salary of the occupational category of Physicians, All Other; and Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric was $218,850 in 2020.

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