Gastroenterology

Gastroenterology

Introduction:

Gastroenterology is a division of medicine wherein the digestive system, as well as disorders associated with the same, are studied. Diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract, as well as the related organs, are focused on in this branch. The gastroenterologist is those medical doctors who are skilled in treating diseases related to the gastrointestinal system and liver. Candidates who have pursued a course in gastroenterology are known as gastroenterologists.

Nature of work:

There is a huge scope to pursue a Gastroenterology program. After completion of a Gastroenterology course, you can work in a government & private hospital, research institutions, health care clinics, medical colleges, etc. You can also work with the other physicians. The career prospects as a Gastroenterologist is wide not only in India but also in abroad with handsome salary.

Personality:

The key personal qualities of students considering a career in gastroenterology should include the following: 

• The ability to make decisions under pressure 
• Good communication skills 
• Consultation skills 
• The ability to cope with one's own stress and other people’s 
• Managerial skills 
• Being able to work as a member of a team 
• Good organization skills

A gastroenterologist also requires the following competencies:

• The ability to perform practical procedures in an emergency setting, as is required in the specialties of surgery and anesthesiology 
• The ability to provide counseling and supportive care in psychologically stressful situations, as is required in psychiatry

Professional courses, Duration and Eligibility Criteria: 

In India, one can find post-graduation courses, postdoctoral courses and super specialty courses under Gastroenterology Courses.

• Doctor of medicine, gastroenterology is a three years post-graduation course in this field. 
• Post graduate diploma in gastroenterology courses is available at some reputed medical colleges. 
• Medical gastroenterology (DM) is a postdoctoral degree with two to three years of duration depending on the university of study. 
• Diplomat of the National Board of Medical Exams in Gastroenterology (DNB) is a specialization course with three years duration, which can be pursued on completion of post-graduation. 
• Master of Chirurgical in gastrointestinal surgery is a super specialty course with two years duration offered in this field. Some of the specializations in this field include hepatology, GI physiology, gastrointestinal oncology and general gastroenterology.

Eligibility Criteria:
UG:
For taking admission into this course a student should have completed his/her 2 years intermediate, Higher School Certificate or equivalent course with science subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. The duration for this course is 3 years.

PG:
For taking admission into this course a student should have completed his/her bachelor degree from a recognized University. The duration for this is 2 years.

Career prospects:

Students who have finished the course with good percentage and brilliant technical knowledge may seek a career in a hospital or medical institute. Gastroenterologists can also work in a health-related institute or as a lecturer in medical institutes/college.

Remuneration:

To build a career in this field, gastroenterologists at the initial stage can expect a salary of around Rs. 6 lakh per annum. Their pay scale can differ with their designation, experience, and eligibility. Gastroenterology doctors earn as much as Rs.15 lakh per annum, depending on where they practice. They can also start a private clinic or health care center as well.

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