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Doctor (Physician): Duties, Requirements, Salaries and Hazards

Lecture



A doctor is a specialist with a medical education who diagnoses, treats, and prevents diseases. It is not just a job, but a calling that requires a high level of responsibility, empathy, and continuous professional development.

Types of doctors

There are more than 100 medical specializations. The main areas are:

  • General practitioner — treats common illnesses and conducts initial appointments.

  • Surgeon — performs operations.

  • Pediatrician — works with children.

  • Cardiologist — treats heart diseases.

  • Neurologist — deals with the nervous system.

  • Oncologist — treats tumors.

  • Dentist — treats teeth and the oral cavity.

  • Psychiatrist — works with mental disorders.

Job responsibilities

A doctor's responsibilities depend on their specialization, but include:

  • Examining and interviewing the patient.

  • Taking a medical history and reviewing the medical record.

  • Ordering tests and examinations (ultrasound, CT, MRI).

  • Making a diagnosis and creating a treatment plan.

  • Monitoring treatment and adjusting therapy.

  • Maintaining medical documentation.

  • Consulting and collaborating with other specialists.

Doctor (Physician): Duties, Requirements, Salaries and Hazards

Requirements for a doctor

Medical:

  • Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology.

  • Command of diagnostic and treatment methods.

  • Ability to work with medical equipment.

Psychological:

  • Stress resistance.

  • Empathy and patience.

  • Ability to make decisions in critical situations.

  • Ethical responsibility and confidentiality.

Education and qualification requirements

To become a doctor:

  • Obtain a higher medical education in the field of «General Medicine».

  • Complete a residency for a narrow specialization.

  • Regularly upgrade your qualifications and pass exams to renew your license (every 5–6 years).

Average salaries worldwide (per year, USD)

Country Average doctor's salary Dentist Surgeon
USA $105,968 $133,941 $395,350
United Kingdom $84,850 $105,926 $95,908
Germany $120,909 $61,019 $72,173
France $138,989 $132,209 $235,240
Canada $105,445 $196,437 $138,734
Australia $74,541 $62,841 $96,816
China $112,544 $114,014 $137,535
Singapore $166,597 $74,501 $92,065
Russia (Moscow) ~$5,748 ~$9,456 ~$7,716

The data is approximate and depends on region, experience, and specialization.

Occupational diseases

Doctors are prone to:

  • Emotional burnout.

  • Infectious diseases (especially in hospitals).

  • Musculoskeletal problems (among surgeons).

  • Sleep disorders and psychosomatic disorders.

Related professions

  • Paramedic

  • Nurse

  • Lab technician

  • Dietitian

  • Obstetrician

  • Microbiologist

  • Biotechnologist

  • Psychologist

  • Veterinarian

See also

  • [[b1097]]
  • [[b1102]]
  • [[b1103]]
  • [[b1104]]

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Lectures and tutorial on "Professions and specialties"

Terms: Professions and specialties