I’m a student of Std X. I want to be a paediatrician. What steps should I take to pursue this?



Becoming a paediatrician or a child specialist requires 5-6 years of training beyond an MBBS degree. First, clear 10+2 examination with Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Then appear in a competitive exam to get admission into MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery). This is a 5 ½ year course which includes a one-year internship period as well.



After MBBS, you should go for 2 years PG Diploma for 3 years M.D. in Paediatrics. The selection of a candidate for PG courses is done through entrance examinations. After completion of M.D./M.S., it is better to study further and do a super specialization.



Admissions for 100% seats of MBBS/BDS in various medical/dental colleges, except AIIMS and JIPMER Puducheery, is done through the common entrance test called NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test). This year, NEET was conducted on 7 May 2017.



Pediatricians need the same skills other specialists do, such as good communication skills, problem-solving and critical thinking. But they also need to have an extra level of understanding when working with children.



 



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