Do you love spending time with children? And do you also have an interest in medicine? If you've said yes to both, then you're a perfect candidate to become a paediatrician.
In this guide on How to Become a Paediatrician in India, we'll take you through the steps on how to specialise in paediatrics, how to acquire the education and skills required, and the job opportunities that lie ahead for you.
Who is a Paediatrician?
As a paediatrician, your primary responsibility is to provide medical care and treatment to infants, children, and adolescents. This includes diagnosing and treating illnesses, performing routine check-ups, administering vaccinations, and monitoring growth and development. You will also offer guidance to parents on nutrition, hygiene, and overall well-being.
To become a successful paediatrician, it is important to have excellent communication skills to effectively interact with young patients and their parents. You should also possess strong observational skills to identify potential health issues in children who may not be able to communicate their symptoms clearly. Additionally, being compassionate and patient is essential when working with children who may be scared or anxious about medical procedures.
Job Potential and Career Growth
With an increasing focus on child healthcare and a growing population, there is a continuous demand for qualified paediatricians across the country.
In terms of salary, the average starting salary of a paediatrician in India ranges from ₹6-8 lakhs per year. However, with experience and specialisation, the salary can increase significantly. Senior paediatricians with established practices or working in reputable hospitals can earn up to ₹50 lakhs per year or more.
Apart from traditional hospital settings, there are alternative career opportunities for paediatricians as well. You can work in research institutions, government health departments, non-profit organisations focusing on child health, or start your own private practice. Some paediatricians also choose to teach at medical colleges and contribute to medical research.
As a paediatrician, you have ample opportunities for growth within the profession.
- With experience and expertise, you can take on leadership roles in hospitals or healthcare organisations.
- You may also choose to specialise further in a niche area of paediatrics to enhance your knowledge and skills.
- Continuous professional development through conferences, workshops, and certifications will help you stay updated with the latest advancements in paediatric medicine and provide better care to your patients.
Becoming a Paediatrician: An Education Path
To become a paediatrician in India, you need to follow a specific educational path.
- In 12th grade, it is advisable to take subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English to meet the eligibility criteria for medical entrance exams.
- After completing 12th grade, you will need to clear the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) to pursue an undergraduate course in medicine.
- Once you qualify for NEET-UG and secure admission into a medical college, you will study for five and a half years to earn your Bachelor of Medicine or Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree.
- After completing your MBBS, you will need to pursue a postgraduate degree (MD) in paediatrics, which typically takes three years. During this period, you will receive specialised training in paediatric medicine through clinical rotations, research, and coursework.
For those interested in further specialisation within paediatrics, various certification courses are available. These courses focus on specific areas, such as:
- Neonatology
- Paediatric cardiology
- Paediatric oncology
- Paediatric nephrology
- Paediatric pulmonology
Apart from specialised certifications, it is also beneficial to complete training programmes like Basic Life Support (BLS) and Neonatal Advanced Life Support (NALS). These certifications ensure that you are equipped with the necessary skills to handle emergency situations involving infants and children effectively.
Upskilling Opportunities for Paediatricians
As a fresh graduate or practising paediatrician, there are several upskilling programmes available to enhance your skills and stay updated with the latest advancements in the field. Some popular options include:
1. Fellowship Programmes: Various hospitals and medical institutions offer fellowship programmes that provide advanced training in sub-specialties such as neonatology, paediatric cardiology, paediatric oncology, and more. These programmes typically last for one to three years and provide hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced doctors.
2. Certification Courses: There are numerous certification courses available online that focus on specific aspects of paediatrics, such as paediatric emergency medicine, child psychology, paediatric nutrition, and adolescent medicine.
WIZR understands the importance of upskilling for professionals like you. We not only provide expert guidance on a wide range of upskilling programmes but also facilitate financing options to make them more accessible.
Be Part of a Thriving Industry
Technological advancements have significantly transformed the landscape of paediatrics in India, opening up new opportunities for professionals in this field. One notable trend is the rise of telemedicine consultations, which allow doctors to remotely diagnose and treat patients through video calls or phone consultations.
Another growing area is the use of remote monitoring tools that allow parents to track their child's health parameters, such as temperature, heart rate, and sleep patterns, from home. This helps parents manage their child's health proactively and enables doctors to provide personalised care.
Looking ahead, the future of paediatrics in India holds great promise. Remember, WIZR is here to support you throughout your journey.
FAQs
1. Is being a paediatrician a challenging job?
Yes, being a paediatrician can be challenging as it requires comprehensive medical knowledge, excellent communication skills, empathy towards young patients and their families, and the ability to handle emotional situations.
2. How long does it take to become a paediatrician in India?
To become a paediatrician in India, one needs to complete an MBBS degree (5.5 years) followed by an MD/DNB in Paediatrics (3 years). Therefore, it takes approximately 8–9 years of education and training after completing high school.
3. What is the difference between a paediatrician and a child specialist?
In India, the terms paediatrician and child specialist are often used interchangeably. Both refer to doctors who specialise in providing medical care for infants, children, and adolescents.
4. Can I choose a paediatrician before delivering my baby?
Yes, you can choose a paediatrician for your baby before delivery. Many hospitals offer the option to select a paediatrician who will be responsible for your child's care after birth.
5. What are the alternative career paths available for paediatricians?
Apart from clinical practice, paediatricians can explore various career paths, such as teaching in medical colleges, working in research institutes, joining pharmaceutical companies as medical advisors, or pursuing administrative roles in healthcare organisations.
