Question

how to become an oncologist

Answer 1

Earn a bachelor's degree. Although three years of study at a college or university is the minimum requirement to gain entry into a medical school in the United States, the majority of aspiring oncologists possess an undergraduate or advanced degree. As an undergrad, it is recommended that students incorporate math and science courses into their curriculum in order to satisfy medical school prerequisites.

Apply to a medical school program.To gain the initial knowledge and experience necessary to become a physician, an individual must receive a medical school education.

Graduate from medical school. The initial training that an aspiring oncologist undergoes takes four years to complete. In addition to learning how to perform a medical history, examine patients and diagnose medical conditions, students take classes in anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology during the first two years of medical school. The remaining two years of instruction centers on students gaining guided experience on how to care for patients within a medical setting through clinical rotations that touch upon multiple specialties – from pediatrics to surgery.

Complete a residency. The majority of oncologists (with the exception of surgeons), train as internists, and must complete a residency in internal medicine.

Surgical oncologists receive additional training to become general surgeons through a five-year surgical residency, and then later pursue a three-year fellowship in oncology and the removal of tumors.

Pediatric oncologists must initially complete a pediatric residency before they enter a pediatric-oncology fellowship.

Gynecological oncologists receive additional training with a residency in OB/Gyn, and then complete additional fellowship training in oncology.

For most oncologists, residencies typically last three to four years.

Pursue a fellowship in a sub-specialty. No matter which sub-specialty an oncologist chooses, all of the physicians undergo at least two years of additional training with a fellowship in oncology. Upon completion of a residency program and/or additional training, doctors may take license exams and board certification for oncologists.

Obtain a license. All physicians who treat patients in the U.S. must obtain a license by fulfilling specific requirements for license which vary on a state-by state basis.

Become board certified. Physicians must pass an examination in order to become board certified as a specialized oncologist; and depending on the sub-specialty, the testing and certification is conducted by one of the following: the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG), American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM), American Board of Pediatrics (ABP), American Board of Radiology (ABR), or the American Board of Surgery (ABS).


While many oncologists begin their careers working in a hospital, others may pursue employment at medical centers, pediatric hospitals, surgical centers, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, prisons, public health centers, health care organizations, and within many other industries.

Some cancer specialists join a multi-specialty group of doctors to provide a greater range of services to patients, or wind up following their aspirations to manage their own business by starting a private practice.

Oncologists also find jobs within an academic setting, as colleges and universities also hire physicians to teach and conduct research. Some oncologists choose to devote their time solely to clinical research, which may include exploring aggressive treatment alternatives and conducting studies for research organizations and pharmaceutical companies that develop new drug options.

Employers hiring oncologists typically seek the following qualities in a job candidate:

Excellent communication skills, which help with the advisement of a patient regarding treatment options, as well as the associated risks and benefits.

Excellent interpersonal skills, with patients (and their families), as well as other medical professionals/staff.

Demonstrates good interpretative and analytical skills, as medical knowledge alone does not fully support a career in oncology.

The ability to remain emotionally detached from a situation in order to stay effective as a medical expert yet still able to address and provide support to patients with compassion.

Patience, a positive attitude and inner strength, to mentally and emotionally deal with terminal cases.

Works well with a team, as the treatment of a patient may include the knowledge and assistance of a pathologist, diagnostic radiologist, oncology nurse, and sometimes, a social worker or therapist.

In some cases, having an open mind regarding non-traditional methods of healing and/or treatment.



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Answer 2

ANSWER...

TO BECOME AN ONCOLOGIST...

STEP 1. Earn a Bachelor's degree and take MCAT.

STEP 2. Graduate from Medical School.

STEP 3. Earn Licensure.

STEP 4. Complete a Residency in General Surgery.

STEP 5. Complete a fellowship in Surgical Oncology.

STEP 6. Continue Education.

STEP 7. Career Advancment.


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