1. Family Medicine
Family practice physicians are primary care providers who see
patients of all ages and provide basic care for a variety of
common ailments. They are usually the first to recognize major
health problems, order diagnostic tests, and refer patients to
specialists when needed. After attending medical school,
family medicine physicians attend a family medicine residency
program for three to five years. During this time, they will
receive hands-on training in pediatric care, emergency medicine,
and other areas of general medicine. They are not limited to a single organ, disease,
or age range. Family medicine is consistently the least competitive
medical specialty to pursue and has one of the lowest salaries at just
over $250K.
2. Internal Medicine
General internists provide primary care to adult patients.
Internists usually have more hospital-based training than family
practitioners. They may have an office-based practice or work as
a hospitalist primarily seeing patients in the hospital. These
physicians attend medical school followed by an internal
medicine residency. Internists may then choose to pursue a
fellowship to subspecialize in a variety of other areas, like
endocrinology (hormone-related conditions) or cardiology
(heart-related issues). The biggest difference between
internal and family medicine is Internal medicine doctors only treat adults. Internal
medicine is also loaded with subspecialty and fellowship options, which
we’ll get to later.
3. Pediatrics
Pediatricians take care of patients from infancy through age 18
or, in some cases, age 21. Pediatricians provide primary
health care to children, including vaccinations, general health
checkups, school physicals, and treatment of issues like coughs,
colds, and stomach flu. If a patient has a more serious
illness, their pediatrician may refer them to a pediatric
subspecialist (e.g., a pediatric orthopedist is a doctor who
specializes in treating young patients with bone and muscle
concerns). After they graduate from medical school,
pediatricians spend at least three years in a residency program
that is focused on pediatric medicine. If they choose to study a
pediatric subspecialty, they will then attend a fellowship for
that subspecialty. Pediatrics is another one of
the least competitive specialties, in part due to its lower average
compensation at $250K a year.
4. Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OB/GYN)
A gynecologist is a doctor who specializes in female
reproductive health, including menopause and hormone problems.
An obstetrician provides care for people who are pregnant.
Obstetricians also are trained to deliver babies. Often,
these specialities are combined, in which case the physician is
referred to as an OB/GYN. At minimum, OB/GYNs must attend
medical school followed by a residency program. Once their
residency is complete, some continue their training with a
fellowship for a subspecialty. Gynecological oncology—a field
that deals with cancer of the female reproductive organs—is just
one example.
5. Surgery
Surgery is a medical specialty that uses manual and instrumental
techniques to diagnose or treat pathological conditions (e.g.,
trauma, disease, injury, malignancy), to alter bodily functions
(e.g., malabsorption created by bariatric surgery such as
gastric bypass), to reconstruct or alter aesthetics and
appearance (cosmetic surgery), or to remove unwanted tissues,
neoplasms, or foreign bodies.
6. Neurology
Neurologists are doctors who take care of patients with medical
conditions that affect the brain, spine, or nerves. They
see patients who have complex medical disorders such as
Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and neuropathy.
Neurologists also take care of patients who have common problems
such as migraine headaches and dizziness. Like other
physicians, neurologists must attend medical school then a
residency for neurology. From there, they may pursue fellowship
training for a subspecialty, such as pediatric neurology or
vascular neurology (related to blood vessels in the brain). Many diseases in neurology are chronic and
progressive, but research and new therapies are rapidly evolving.
7. Psychiatry
Psychiatry focuses on understanding and treating mental health disorders
and psychological distress through talk therapy and medication. They
holistically consider the psychological, socioeconomic, and physiologic
causes of their patients’ symptoms, not just the symptoms themselves.
Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists attend medical school and, up until
residency, they complete the same medical training as all other MDs or
DOs.
8. Plastic Surgery
Plastic surgeons are surgeons who specialize in changing a
person's appearance. These doctors may perform plastic surgery
for cosmetic reasons, such as changing the appearance of a
person's nose or removing skin under the neck, or because a
person requires reconstruction following injury or illness.
A plastic surgeon can help improve a person's well-being and
ability to function as well as their outward appearance. For
example, treating a cleft palate with plastic surgery can
improve a person's ability to breathe or speak. Plastic surgery
can also help improve the appearance of burns or scars or reduce
the signs of aging. Plastic surgeons complete at
least five years of graduate medical training including three
years of general surgery and two years of plastic surgery. Plastic surgery is consistently
one of the most competitive specialties, in part because it has one of
the highest average annual compensations at over $600K.
9. Otolaryngology
Otolaryngologists are more commonly referred to as ENTs, or
ear/nose/throat doctors. Otolaryngology is a field that
entails a combination of surgical skills and office-based
medicine and treatment. They are required to attend medical
school in addition to residency for otolaryngology. ENTs
handle a lot of issues, including sinus problems, allergies,
head and neck cancers, and more. Because of this, many ENTs
attend fellowships for a subspecialty of otolaryngology, such as
rhinology, which focuses on issues related to the nose and
sinuses. ENT is also one of the
most competitive specialties you can pursue. For more information Otolaryngologist
10. Urology
Urology (from Greek οὖρον ouron "urine" and -λογία -logia "study
of"), also known as genitourinary surgery, is the branch of
medicine that focuses on surgical and medical diseases of the
urinary system and the reproductive organs. Organs under the
domain of urology include the kidneys, adrenal glands, ureters,
urinary bladder, urethra, and the male reproductive organs
(testes, epididymides, vasa deferentia, seminal vesicles,
prostate, and penis).
11. Anesthesiology
Anesthesiologists are trained to manage patient pain and vital
signs during surgery. They also often manage medical emergencies
in the hospital, such as cardiac arrest and sudden breathing
problems. Aspiring anesthesiologists must attend medical
school followed by a residency program for anesthesiology. There
are numerous subspecialties of anesthesiology they may attend
fellowships for, including anesthesia for patients with chronic
pain or for patients in the ICU.
12. Radiology
Diagnostic radiology uses machines to visualize what is occurring inside
the body. Radiologists interpret
these images and leverage the power of machines to both diagnose and
treat disease. While most diagnostic radiologists spend their time in
reading rooms, interventional radiologists can perform several
procedures, such as ablating cancers with radiation-infused particles.
13. Pathology
Pathologists specialize in investigating the cause and effect of
disease and injury. These physicians are trained to evaluate
tissue, blood, and body fluids to help diagnose and treat
illnesses. Some pathologists also examine bodies to help find
the cause of death. Clinical pathologists work with blood
and other body fluids in a laboratory setting, while anatomical
pathologists may examine whole organs and tissues during an
autopsy. Pathologists are usually trained in both
clinical and anatomical pathology and may specialize in areas
such as chemical pathology (including toxicology), hematology
(the study of diseases of the blood), or forensic pathology.
In the United States, pathologists complete medical school
followed by three years of residency training. They are
certified by the American Board of Pathology.
14. Emergency Medicine
Emergency medicine physicians treat patients with urgent healthcare
needs, from acute conditions like heart attacks to exacerbations of
chronic health conditions to stabilizing patients involved in trauma. EM
doctors need to know a little bit about everything, making them the jack
of all trades, master of one—emergencies.
15. Critical Care
Critical care physicians, also known as
Intensivist, treat patients
with life-threatening injuries and illnesses in the ICU. While similar
to emergency medicine, critical care focuses on the long-term, 24-hour
care of a dangerously ill patient, as opposed to emergency medicine
cases that require immediate evaluation and stabilization.
16. Preventive Medicine
Preventive medicine doctors apply their expertise in medicine, as well
as the social, economic, and behavioral sciences, to show how changes to
a patient’s lifestyle can be an effective form of treatment and prevent
illnesses before they occur. Preventive medicine physicians have one of
the lowest annual salaries at around $250K.
17. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Physical medicine and rehabilitation, also known as a PM&R, is the
jack-of-all-trades specialty focusing on the management of non-operative
orthopedics and neuro-rehabilitation. Physiatrists are the primary
physicians for certain nervous system or non-surgical orthopedic
disorders, offering both medical and procedural treatments.
18. Orthopedics
An orthopedist or orthopedic surgeon is a doctor who specializes
in conditions of the musculoskeletal system, including the
bones, muscles, joints, and connective tissues. These physicians
see patients with injuries such as sprains, joint injuries, and
broken bones. They also specialize in chronic conditions like
osteoarthritis, tendonitis, dysplasia, and osteoporosis.
Orthopedists diagnose and treat conditions of the
musculoskeletal system, monitor patient rehabilitation, and
perform surgery when necessary. Orthopedic surgeons
complete a five-year residency program with the option to
complete fellowship training. Orthopedic
surgeons are one of the highest paid specialists, close to plastic
surgeons at around $575K a year.
19. Ophthalmology
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who treat diseases or
disorders of the eyes, such as cataracts and glaucoma.
Vision correction that cannot be handled by an optometrist may
be treated by an ophthalmologist. When necessary,
ophthalmologists will also perform eye surgery. Ophthalmologists
attend medical school followed by a residency for ophthalmology.
They are not required to take a fellowship, although many choose
to attend fellowship training for specific eye diseases or
surgical procedures.
20. Dermatology
Dermatologists diagnose and treat conditions that affect the
hair, skin, and nails. This may include treating rashes or acne,
diagnosing melanoma (skin cancer), and much more. In
addition to this, dermatologists also perform many aesthetic
procedures that are paid for out of pocket rather than by
insurance. Such procedures include Botox injections, laser skin
treatments, and more. After medical school, dermatologists
must attend dermatology residency. Fellowships are not required,
but some dermatologists may attend them if they choose to
subspecialize in a particular aspect of dermatology.
Dermatology is a very competitive field for physicians. One
reason for this is that dermatologists are very well
compensated. Typically, only the top medical students are
accepted into dermatology residency programs. A dermatologist’s higher salary coupled with the
better-than-average work/life balance it provides make it a highly
competitive specialty.
21. Cardiology
Cardiology is the most competitive and highest paying of all of the
internal medicine fellowships. Cardiologists treat diseases of the heart
and vascular system, many of which are quite common, like heart failure,
hypertension, and heart attacks. Heart disease is the leading cause of
death among Americans. Cardiologists focus on treatment of the
heart and its blood vessels. This can include the management of
heart failure, cardiovascular disease, and post-operative care.
Training to become a cardiologist is fairly extensive. After
completing three years of internal medicine residency, aspiring
cardiologists need to attend several more years of fellowship
training.
22. Gastroenterology
Gastroenterology involves everything in the gastrointestinal tract,
ranging from the mouth to internal organs like the liver and pancreas to
the anus. They deal with a wide variety of diseases, including
heartburn, inflammatory bowel disease, and hepatitis.
Gastroenterologists treat the functions and diseases of the
digestive system. This field attracts physicians who enjoy doing
procedures, but who also like seeing patients in an outpatient
setting. Gastroenterology is another subspecialty of
internal medicine. At minimum, gastroenterologists attend
medical school followed by an internal medicine residency. From
there, they need to attend fellowship training for
gastroenterology.
23. Pulmonology
Pulmonologists treat the cardio-pulmonary system, which consists
of the heart, lungs, and organs involved in the respiratory
process. In addition, Pulmonologists may work in office settings to treat patients with
breathing disorders, severe allergies, lung problems, and other respiratory
diseases. They may also treat patients with pulmonary disease who are in the
intensive care unit (ICU). Aspiring Pulmonologists attend medical school followed by an internal medicine
residency. They then attend fellowship training for Pulmonology.
24. Hematology
Hematologists specialize in diseases of the blood, including
cancers of the blood such as leukemia and lymphoma.
Hematologists also treat non-cancerous conditions like
hemophilia and anemia. Hematologists work directly with
patients, while hematopathologists help diagnose blood-related
diseases in a laboratory. American Society of Hematology.
Resources for medical students and residents. Hematologists
complete four years of medical school followed by a three-year
residency in a specialty such as pediatrics or internal
medicine. They are also required to complete a two- to four-year
fellowship in a subspecialty such as pediatric
hematology/oncology or pathology.
25. Oncology
Oncology is a subspecialty of internal medicine that has three
main areas: medical, surgical, or radiation oncology.
Oncologists take care of patients who have cancer by treating
the disease itself, as well as the symptoms it causes.
Often, oncologists take part in clinical trials using new and
experimental treatments for cancers that are otherwise
incurable. Oncologists attend medical school followed by an
oncology residency. There are also fellowships for
subspecialties of oncology, like pediatric oncology (children's
cancer) and radiation oncology (radiation treatment for cancer).
26. Rheumatology
Rheumatologists treat rheumatic diseases, or autoimmune and
inflammatory diseases of the musculoskeletal system. The most
common condition a rheumatologist treats is arthritis including
osteoarthritis (wear and tear arthritis) and rheumatoid
arthritis (an autoimmune condition). They also treat other
autoimmune diseases such as lupus and scleroderma. A
rheumatologist may also treat chronic back pain, fibromyalgia,
osteoporosis, and related conditions. After medical school, rheumatologists complete a three-year basic internal
medicine residency followed by a rheumatology fellowship. Rheumatologists are
certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.
27. Endocrinology
Endocrinology focuses on diseases of metabolism and the endocrine
system, which is made up of the pancreas, thyroid gland, adrenal glands,
hormones, and more. They commonly see diseases like diabetes, hyper and
hypothyroidism, and obesity, as well as cancers related to the endocrine
system. Endocrinologists treat the endocrine system—the glands
that produce and secrete hormones that control and regulate
nearly all of the body's functions. People with diabetes or
thyroid disease are often treated by an endocrinologist.
Like other internal medicine physicians, endocrinologists attend
medical school followed by an internal medicine residency. They
are then required to attend fellowship training for
endocrinology.
28. Nephrology
Nephrology focuses solely on the kidneys, which are responsible for many
vital and complex functions in the body, such as regulating our
electrolytes and fluids. Nephrologists see a wide range of clinical
diseases, including renal failure, acid-base disorders, and
hypertension. After medical school, these physicians attend an
internal medicine residency program. They are then required to
attend fellowship training for nephrology.
29. Infectious Diseases
The infectious
disease specialty focuses on microorganisms that infect humans,
including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The COVID-19 pandemic
drew attention to the importance of infectious disease specialists.
Infectious disease physicians deal with infections that are hard
to diagnose or treat. They also treat serious infections such as
the swine flu, bird flu, HIV/AIDS, and other infectious
diseases. After medical school, infectious disease
physicians must attend an internal medicine residency followed
by fellowship training for infectious diseases.
30. Allergy/Immunology
Allergy and immunology, often referred to as AI, is sometimes lumped
together with infectious diseases. An allergist/immunologist cares for
patients who have misbehaving immune systems, including people with
allergies, respiratory diseases like asthma, immune deficiencies, and
certain types of autoimmune conditions. A doctor who specializes
in treating allergies and immunologic disorders is called an
allergist/immunologist, though sometimes this specialty will
simply be referred to as an allergist or immunologist. These
doctors treat people with allergies and asthma as well as people
with primary immunodeficiency disease. Allergists/immunologists
complete three years of training in internal medicine or
pediatrics and an additional two-year fellowship in an
allergy/immunology training program
31. Trauma Surgery
Trauma surgery is a branch of surgical medicine that deals with
the immediate and critical care of patients suffering from
traumatic injuries. These injuries can result from various
incidents, including motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports
injuries, and violent acts such as stabbings or gunshot wounds.
The primary goal of trauma surgery is to stabilize the patient,
prevent further injury, and initiate the healing process through
surgical intervention when necessary
32. Cardiothoracic Surgery
Cardiothoracic surgery encompasses surgical interventions on the
heart, lungs, chest, and esophagus. This specialty is crucial
for treating conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart
valve disorders, lung cancer, and other thoracic diseases.
Cardiothoracic surgeons are trained to perform complex
procedures that can significantly improve patient outcomes and
quality of life.
33. Vascular Surgery
Vascular surgery involves surgical procedures to treat diseases
and conditions affecting the vascular system. This includes the
management of diseases such as peripheral arterial disease
(PAD), aneurysms, varicose veins, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Vascular surgeons are trained to perform both open surgical
procedures and minimally invasive techniques, such as
endovascular surgery.
34. Gender Surgery
Gender surgery is the controversial field of medicine concerned with
alleviating gender dysphoria through surgical procedures. Any surgical
procedure designed to help alleviate gender dysphoria can be considered
gender surgery, including masculinization and feminization of the face
and chest, tracheal shaves, voice modification, and even limb
lengthening and shortening procedures.
35. Interventional Cardiology
An interventional
cardiologist is a cardiologist who has completed additional training
in minimally invasive procedures of the heart. Unlike surgery, these
procedures are typically performed in a cardiac cath lab instead of an
operating room and involve live x-rays, contrast dye, and specialized
equipment.
36. Reproductive Endocrinology
Reproductive endocrinology and infertility, or REI, is focused on
helping people get pregnant who are unable to do so on their own. REI
physicians are experts in all things related to conception and
reproduction and are adept at managing any issues that may be preventing
patients from becoming pregnant.
37. Neonatology
Neonatology is a subspecialty of pediatrics that focuses on the
medical care of newborn infants, particularly those who are ill
or premature. Neonatologists are healthcare providers who manage
the care of these high-risk newborns, addressing complex health
conditions that may arise at birth. Neonatology is typically
practiced in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), where
specialized care is provided to ensure the health and well-being
of vulnerable infants.
38. Pediatric Intensivist
Pediatric intensivists focus on the treatment of seriously ill
patients from birth to 18 years of age and beyond. They perform
intubations for children needing ventilatory support, place arterial
catheters for children needing blood pressure monitoring, insert venous
catheters for the safe delivery of certain medications, and more.
39. Podiatry
A podiatrist is a doctor who treats problems with the foot,
ankle, and lower leg, such as osteoarthritis in the ankle,
diabetic foot disorders, foot and ankle injuries, skin and nail
conditions of the foot, and foot deformities like flat feet and
hammertoe. Podiatrists must complete four years of
education in a specialized podiatric medical school. They must
also complete a two-year residency that provides experience in
additional areas such as surgery, ER, and pediatrics.
40. Sports Medicine Doctor
A sports medicine doctor specializes in diagnosing, treating,
and managing injuries related to the musculoskeletal system,
particularly for athletes. They educate both athletes and
non-athletes on injury prevention, nutrition, and safe exercise
practices. Sports medicine doctors can come from various medical
backgrounds, including orthopedics, emergency medicine,
pediatrics, or rehabilitation. Their primary goal is to enhance
physical performance and ensure safe participation in sports and
physical activities. They can provide a full spectrum of care for
anyone who wants to be active.
41. Military Doctor
Military doctors provide the same services as any other
physician. The primary difference is they serve the United
States Armed Forces as opposed to working for a civilian company
or hospital. As such, military doctors diagnose and treat a
variety of conditions and injuries. Military physicians must be specialists in their field while being
competent and flexible generalists when deployed. For example, while
deployed, a general surgeon may be asked to do cases more typically
reserved for a neurosurgeon, otolaryngologist, or urologist.
42. Global Health Doctor
Global health doctors help spread medicine and surgery to developing
countries and underserved populations. There are five billion people in
the world who don’t have access to safe and affordable surgical care.
Global health aims to decrease this health gap by partnering with local
physicians and advocates to empower those populations.
43. Neurosurgery
First up is neurosurgery,
which deals with the surgical treatment of disorders that affect any
part of the nervous system, such as the brain, spinal cord, and
peripheral nervous system. It is an extremely difficult career path due
to its competitiveness, long hours, and poor work-life balance. Note
that neurosurgery can be further broken down into endovascular
neurosurgery, pediatric neurosurgery, and more, but we’ll save those for
another video.
44. Orthopedic
surgery
Next, orthopedic
surgery deals with conditions involving the musculoskeletal system.
Orthopedic surgeons use both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat
musculoskeletal trauma, sports injuries, spine diseases, infections,
tumors, degenerative diseases, and congenital disorders. Orthopedic
surgery can also be broken down into further subspecialties, such as
spine, foot and ankle, and more, but we’ll save those for another video
too.
45. Thoracic Surgery
Thoracic surgery encompasses a variety of operations performed
in the thorax (chest), addressing conditions related to the
heart, lungs, esophagus, trachea, and other structures within
the chest cavity. Common procedures include heart valve repairs,
lung tumor removals, and aneurysm repairs.
46. Colorectal Surgery
Colorectal surgery refers to surgical procedures that address
various disorders of the lower digestive tract. This includes
conditions such as colon cancer, Crohn's disease, ulcerative
colitis, diverticulitis, and hemorrhoids. The surgery can be
performed using different techniques, including laparoscopic,
robotic, and open surgery.
47. Endocrine Surgery
Endocrine surgeries treat disorders that affect glands in your
endocrine system. The surgeries mostly focus on diseases that
affect your thyroid, parathyroid and adrenal glands. Glands are
organs that release hormones into your bloodstream. These
hormones send messages to tissues that tell them what to do to
keep your body healthy. You may need endocrine surgery if a
gland stops working correctly. The gland may send out too much
hormone or not enough.
48. Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery
Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary surgery, or
HPB surgery is a specialized field that focuses on complex
surgical procedures related to the liver, pancreas, and biliary
system. These surgeries are among the most challenging in
general surgery and require a high level of expertise and skill
from the surgical team. HPB surgeons are trained to handle a
variety of conditions, including cancers and other diseases
affecting these organs.
49. Transplant Surgeon
Transplant surgeons are medical surgeons that specialize in
organ transplants in patients. They can perform surgeries to
transplant a heart, liver, kidney, or even parts of the brain to
a patient who is suffering terminal illness from a defective or
damaged organ. Most transplant surgeons specialize in
transplants of a specific organ and only perform those
surgeries, but almost all transplant surgeons work in various
fields of transplants before deciding on one specific field to
practice.
A transplant surgeon is a surgeon who performs organ
transplants. Among the many organs that can be transplanted are:
kidneys, livers, hearts, lungs, the pancreas, the intestine
(especially the small intestine), and recently, faces, tracheal
(windpipe) tissue, and penises.
50. Female Urologist
Female urologists bring specialized expertise in addressing the
unique urological needs of women, including UTIs, overactive
bladder, and pelvic floor dysfunction. They offer personalized
care while considering psychosocial and cultural factors,
fostering inclusive environments for discussions and treatment.
Additionally, they contribute to research, driving innovation
for better diagnosis and treatment modalities. By recognizing
urology’s significance beyond gender stereotypes, we promote
inclusivity and access to quality care for all individuals,
ensuring their urological health needs are met effectively.
51. Pediatric Surgery
A pediatric surgeon is a doctor who specializes in surgery for
children. Pediatric surgeons diagnose and treat children of all
ages. They may operate on a developing fetus, your newborn,
infant, child, teenager or a young adult. They work closely with
other specialists and help manage your child’s care before and
after surgery. Children aren’t just small adults.
Pediatric surgeons know your child is still growing and
developing. They know children have unique medical needs. Some
health conditions only affect children. Others affect children
in different ways than adults. Many surgical techniques and
tools are designed specifically for children. Pediatric
surgeons have extensive training and experience working with
kids. They know how to make your child feel safe and
comfortable. They also understand that hearing your child needs
surgery can be scary and overwhelming. They’ll be there for you
to answer your questions and reassure you that your child is in
good hands.
52. Fetal Surgery
Fetal surgery, also known as in-utero or prenatal surgery,
involves operating on a fetus while it is still in the uterus.
This type of surgery is typically performed to address serious
congenital abnormalities that could threaten the fetus's life or
lead to significant disabilities after birth. Conditions such as
spina bifida, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, and twin-to-twin
transfusion syndrome are commonly treated through fetal surgery.
53. Surgical Oncology
Surgical oncology is a branch of medicine that uses surgical
procedures to diagnose, treat, and manage cancer. Surgical
oncologists are specially trained to perform operations that
remove tumors and surrounding tissues that may contain cancer
cells. They play a crucial role in the multidisciplinary
approach to cancer treatment, often collaborating with medical
and radiation oncologists to develop comprehensive treatment
plans for patients.
54. Breast Oncology
Breast oncology is the treatment of breast cancer. It is classified as a
surgical subspecialty for treatment that may involve the surgical
removal of breast tumors, lymph nodes, or entire breasts, also known as
mastectomies. Breast oncology does not cover reconstructive surgery,
only any necessary removal.
55. Hair Transplant Surgeon
A hair transplant surgeon is a medical professional, typically a
dermatologist or plastic surgeon, who specializes in performing
hair restoration procedures to treat hair loss. Hair transplant surgery focuses on restoring someone’s hair by taking
follicles from parts of the scalp where hair is growing and grafting it
to areas that are thinning or bald.
56. Microsurgery
Microsurgery focuses on operating on and repairing nerves, small blood
vessels, and tubes using microscopic technology. Procedures include free
tissue transfer, replantation, and nerve grafts or transplants.
Microsurgery is the stuff of science fiction, as these physicians
intricately move nerves and tissues using sophisticated microscopes for
procedures like reanimating a face with Bell’s Palsy.
57. Hand Surgery
Hand surgery is focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation
of hand injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and degenerative and
rheumatoid arthritis, as well as pathological disorders or trauma that
affect the hand and wrist. Most of the time, hand surgery is a
fellowship that follows orthopedics or plastics. However, occasionally,
hand surgery follows general surgery. The orthopedics path focuses on
the bones, while the plastics path focuses on the soft tissue, although
neither does so exclusively.
58. Craniofacial Surgery
Craniofacial surgery is a specialized field that addresses
congenital and acquired deformities of the skull and face. It
involves reconstructing the missing or damaged skeleton,
correcting deformities, and rebuilding facial features. Common
conditions treated include cleft lip and palate,
craniosynostosis, and other craniofacial anomalies. Centers like
the Cleft-Craniofacial Center at UI Health and the RUSH
Craniofacial Center provide comprehensive care for patients with
these conditions.
59. Aesthetic Surgery
Aesthetic or cosmetic surgery is focused on improving a patient’s
appearance through elective procedures such as face lifts, breast
augmentation, and liposuction. It’s important to note a board-certified
plastic surgeon will have thorough and complete training, whereas a
board-certified “cosmetic surgeon” likely specialized in something
unrelated and chose a cosmetic surgery certification after.
60. Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is performed to restore the look of the
breast after surgery for breast cancer. This can be done
immediately following a mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or
at a later date (delayed reconstruction). The decision to
undergo reconstruction is personal and can depend on various
factors, including emotional well-being and physical health.
61. Forensic Pathology
A forensic pathologist is a medical doctor who investigates
unexpected, suspicious, unnatural and/or violent deaths. They
usually do this by performing autopsies (a medical exam of a
body after death). Their work involves both medical and legal
matters. Pathology is the branch of medicine that involves
the laboratory examination of samples of body tissues for
diagnostic or forensic purposes. “Forensic” means “related to
scientific methods of solving crimes.” But not all deaths that
forensic pathologists investigate are criminal.
62. Genetic Pathology
Genetic pathology, particularly in the context of molecular
genetic pathology, involves the application of molecular biology
and genetics to diagnose and confirm clinical conditions. This
includes Mendelian genetic disorders, developmental disorders,
immunologic conditions, infectious diseases, and malignancies.
The field combines principles from pathology and molecular
biology to study diseases at a molecular level, which is crucial
for the advancement of precision medicine. They often deal with rare conditions
and must answer complex medical questions.
63. Molecular Pathology
Molecular pathology is an emerging discipline within pathology
that examines molecules within organs, tissues, or bodily fluids
to diagnose diseases. It combines aspects of anatomic pathology,
clinical pathology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and
genetics, making it a crossover discipline. This field is
particularly significant in understanding the sub-microscopic
aspects of diseases, allowing for more accurate diagnoses when
combined with traditional morphological assessments.
64. Neuropathology
Neuropathology is the study of diseases affecting the nervous
system tissue, typically involving small surgical biopsies or
whole-body autopsies. Neuropathologists work closely with
clinical disciplines such as neurology and neurosurgery to
provide diagnoses. This field encompasses the analysis of
various neurological diseases, including brain tumors and
neurodegenerative conditions, focusing on the molecular and
cellular basis of these diseases. Additionally, neuropathology
plays a crucial role in advancing research into human
neurological diseases and enhancing diagnostic methods.
65. Diagnostic Radiology
Diagnostic radiology is a subspecialty of radiology that focuses
on using various imaging technologies to determine the internal
condition of a patient. The primary goal is to diagnose
illnesses and injuries through non-invasive methods, allowing
healthcare providers to visualize the body's structures and
functions without the need for surgical procedures.
66. Interventional Radiology (IR)
Interventional radiology (IR) is a way to diagnose and treat
cancer and other conditions without major surgery. With IR,
your doctor looks inside your body with imaging tests such as
ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs. Then they use small tools, like
needles and tubes, to do a procedure or give treatment right
where you need it. During these procedures, your doctor
can put tools into your body through tiny cuts that can be as
small as a pinhole.
67. Nuclear Radiology
A nuclear radiologist, also known as a nuclear medicine
physician, is a doctor who specializes in testing and treating
people using radioactive materials. With this technology, they
can examine muscle tissue, organs, and blood and treat problems
in those areas. Nuclear radiology uses substances called
radiopharmaceuticals. The radiation in them can treat certain
types of illnesses or illuminate a part of the body during a
scan with a special camera. The nuclear radiologist analyzes the
resulting images of where and how the substances were absorbed
in the body to diagnose a medical condition.
68. Child Psychiatry
Child and adolescent psychiatry (or pediatric psychiatry) is a
branch of psychiatry that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment,
and prevention of mental disorders in children, adolescents, and
their families. It investigates the biopsychosocial factors that
influence the development and course of psychiatric disorders
and treatment responses to various interventions. Child and
adolescent psychiatrists primarily use psychotherapy and/or
medication to treat mental disorders in the pediatric
population.
69. Geriatric Psychiatry
Geriatric psychiatry, also known as geropsychiatry,
psychogeriatrics or psychiatry of old age, is a branch of
medicine and a subspecialty of psychiatry dealing with the
study, prevention, and treatment of neurodegenerative, cognitive
impairment, and mental disorders in people of old age. Geriatric
psychiatry as a subspecialty has significant overlap with the
specialties of geriatric medicine, behavioural neurology,
neuropsychiatry, neurology, and general psychiatry. Geriatric
psychiatry has become an official subspecialty of psychiatry
with a defined curriculum of study and core competencies.
70. Forensic Psychiatry
Forensic psychiatry is a subspecialty of psychiatry and is
related to criminology. It encompasses the interface between law
and psychiatry. According to the American Academy of Psychiatry
and the Law, it is defined as "a subspecialty of psychiatry in
which scientific and clinical expertise is applied in legal
contexts involving civil, criminal, correctional, regulatory, or
legislative matters, and in specialized clinical consultations
in areas such as risk assessment or employment." A forensic
psychiatrist provides services – such as determination of
competency to stand trial – to a court of law to facilitate the
adjudicative process and provide treatment, such as medications
and psychotherapy, to criminals.
71. Addiction Psychiatry
Addiction psychiatry is a medical subspecialty within psychiatry
that focuses on the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of
people who have one or more disorders related to addiction. This
may include disorders involving legal and illegal drugs,
gambling, sex, food, and other impulse control disorders.
Addiction psychiatrists are substance use disorder experts.
Growing amounts of scientific knowledge, such as the health
effects and treatments for substance use disorders, have led to
advancements in the field of addiction psychiatry. These
advancements in understanding the neurobiology of rewarding
behavior, along with federal funding, has allowed for ample
opportunity for research in the discipline of addiction
psychiatry. Addiction psychiatry is an expanding field, and
currently there is a high demand for substance use disorder
experts in both the private and public sector.
72. Military Psychiatry
Military psychiatry covers special aspects of psychiatry and
mental disorders within the military context. The aim of
military psychiatry is to keep as many serving personnel as
possible fit for duty and to treat those disabled by psychiatric
conditions. Military psychiatry encompasses counseling
individuals and families on a variety of life issues, often from
the standpoint of life strategy counseling, as well as
counseling for mental health issues, substance abuse prevention
and substance abuse treatment; and where called for, medical
treatment for biologically based mental illness, among other
elements. A military psychiatrist is a
psychiatrist—whether uniformed officer or civilian
consultant—specializing in the treatment of military personnel
and military family members suffering from mental disorders that
occur within the statistical norm for any population, as well as
those disorders consequent to warfare and also stresses
associated with military life.
73. Critical Care Medicine
Critical care medicine deals with patients who are critically
ill and require intensive monitoring and treatment. This branch
of medicine is essential for managing severe illnesses that
threaten life, such as organ failure, severe infections, and
complications from major surgeries. Patients in critical care
often require constant monitoring, life support, and advanced
medical interventions to stabilize their conditions. This often includes trauma victims
and those who have multiple organ dysfunction.
74. Hospice and Palliative Medicine
A hospice and palliative medicine specialist helps patients who
have serious illnesses or are at the end of life. This type of
doctor does not focus on treating or curing the illness itself
but instead helps manage pain and improve quality of life.
A palliative medicine specialist may work in a hospital, in a
hospice center, in an outpatient setting, or in other facilities
that provide end-of-life care or treat and support people with
serious illnesses. After finishing medical school, a
person training to be a hospice and palliative medicine
specialist completes a three- to seven-year residency program in
a specialty such as family medicine, pediatrics, or psychiatry.
After residency, they must complete a one-year specialized
training fellowship.
75. Geriatric Medicine
Geriatrics, or geriatric medicine, is a medical specialty
focused on addressing the unique health needs of older adults.
The term geriatrics originates from the Greek γέρων geron
meaning "old man", and ιατρός iatros meaning "healer". It aims
to promote health by preventing, diagnosing and treating disease
in older adults. Older adults may be healthy, but they're more
likely to have chronic health concerns and require more medical
care. There is not a defined age at which patients may be under
the care of a geriatrician, or geriatric physician, a physician
who specializes in the care of older people. Rather, this
decision is guided by individual patient needs and the
caregiving structures available to them. This care may benefit
those who are managing multiple chronic conditions or
experiencing significant age-related complications that threaten
quality of daily life. Geriatric care may be indicated if
caregiving responsibilities become increasingly stressful or
medically complex for family and caregivers to manage
independently. There is a distinction between geriatrics
and gerontology. Gerontology is the multidisciplinary study of
the aging process, defined as the decline in organ function over
time in the absence of injury, illness, environmental risks or
behavioral risk factors. However, geriatrics is sometimes
called medical gerontology. This is a growing medical career path because of the
increasing aging population in the US.
76. Medical Toxicology
Medical toxicology is a subspecialty of medicine focusing on
toxicology and providing the diagnosis, management, and
prevention of poisoning and other adverse effects due to
medications, occupational and environmental toxicants, and
biological agents. Medical toxicologists are involved in the
assessment and treatment of a wide variety of problems,
including acute or chronic poisoning, adverse drug reactions (ADRs),
drug overdoses, envenomations, substance abuse, industrial
accidents, and other chemical exposures. Medical
toxicology is officially recognized as a medical subspecialty by
the American Board of Medical Specialties. Its practitioners are
physicians, whose primary specialization is generally in
emergency medicine, occupational medicine, or pediatrics.
Medical toxicology is closely related to clinical toxicology,
with the latter discipline encompassing non-physicians as well
(generally pharmacists or scientists).
77. Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine
Undersea and hyperbaric medicine is a subspecialty that deals
with the prevention of injury and illness due to exposure to
increased ambient pressure, such as during diving or in
hyperbaric chambers. It also involves the therapeutic use of
high environmental pressure and the delivery of oxygen under
pressure to treat various diseases. This field emphasizes the
occupational, environmental, safety, and clinical aspects of
diving and hyperbaric chamber operations.
78. Radiation Oncology
Radiation oncology is a medical specialty that uses radiation
therapy to treat cancer by focusing high-energy waves on the
body to kill cancer cells. Radiation oncologists are specialists
who determine the appropriate treatment based on the type and
stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. This
field encompasses various aspects of cancer treatment, including
collaboration with medical oncologists and surgeons to provide
comprehensive care.
79. Cancer Immunology
Cancer immunology (immuno-oncology) is an interdisciplinary
branch of biology and a sub-discipline of immunology that is
concerned with understanding the role of the immune system in
the progression and development of cancer; the most well known
application is cancer immunotherapy, which utilises the immune
system as a treatment for cancer. Cancer immunosurveillance and
immunoediting are based on protection against development of
tumors in animal systems and (ii) identification of targets for
immune recognition of human cancer.
80. Longevity Medicine
Longevity medicine focuses on helping patients optimize their health and
wellbeing as they age to achieve a greater healthspan—the number of
healthy years you have left—rather than lifespan alone. They also help
prevent or minimize the impact of age-related diseases. Longevity
medicine is a new and emerging profession that’s grown in popularity
over recent years with the rise of medical and science celebrities like
doctors David Sinclair, Peter Attia, and Andrew Huberman.
81. Preventive Medicine
Preventive medicine aims to prevent the occurrence of any health concern
or disease. It’s often practiced by primary care doctors who work
directly with patients on prevention methods, such as improving diet,
sleep quality, and stress levels, implementing adequate physical
activity, and watching for early warning signs of health concerns
through fitness monitoring, blood tests, and screenings. There’s a lot
of overlap between longevity and preventive medicine as they share
similar goals.
82. Medical Scientist
A biomedical scientist is a scientist trained in biology,
particularly in the context of medical laboratory sciences or
laboratory medicine. These scientists work to gain knowledge on
the main principles of how the human body works and to find new
ways to cure or treat disease by developing advanced diagnostic
tools or new therapeutic strategies. The research of biomedical
scientists is referred to as biomedical research.
83. Sleep Medicine
A sleep medicine specialist treats sleep disorders such as sleep
apnea, restless legs syndrome, and insomnia. Sleep medicine is considered multidisciplinary, which means there is a broad
range of specialties within it. For example, a psychiatrist who specializes in
sleep disorders may treat people with insomnia while a pediatrician may work
with children who sleep talk, sleepwalk, or have night terrors. Sleep specialists first complete a residency in another specialty such as
internal medicine, pediatrics, family medicine, or neurology. A one-year
fellowship is required after the residency is completed. Internists complete a
three-year fellowship in pulmonary/critical care before completing sleep
medicine training
84. Aerospace Medicine
Aerospace medicine, also known as aviation medicine, is a branch
of preventive or occupational medicine that deals with the
health-related issues of aircrew, astronauts, and passengers.
This specialty aims to treat and prevent conditions to which
aircrew are particularly susceptible, applying knowledge of
human factors in aviation to enhance safety and performance in
extreme environments