Obstetrician / Gynecologist
Job Description:Provide medical care related to pregnancy or childbirth, and diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases of women, particularly those affecting the reproductive system.
Many consultants work in both Obstetrics and Gynaecology (O&B), although some have a special interest in a particular area, such as high-risk obstetrics, or minimal access surgery. Gynaecology is concerned with the well-being and health of the female reproductive organs and the ability to reproduce, whereas obstetrics is concerned with pregnancy and childbirth.
Job Category:What you will do:
Your day-to-day will include tasks such as:
- Prepare government and organisational reports on birth, death, and disease statistics, workforce evaluations, or the medical status of individuals.
- Care for and treat women during prenatal, natal, and postnatal periods.
- Consult with or provide consulting services to other physicians.
- Refer patient to medical specialist or other practitioner when necessary.
- Advise patients and community members concerning diet, activity, hygiene, and disease prevention.
- Prescribe or administer therapy, medication, and other specialised medical care to treat or prevent illness, disease, or injury.
- Prescribe or administer therapy, medication, and other specialised medical care to treat or prevent illness, disease, or injury.
- Explain procedures and discuss test results or prescribed treatments with patients.
- Analyse records, reports, test results, or examination information to diagnose medical condition of patient.
- Conduct research to develop or test medications, treatments, or procedures to prevent or control disease or injury.
Skills:
You are likely to need
knowledge of medicine
as well as:
- leadership and management skills
- confidence and decisiveness under pressure
- practical skills for examining patients and performing clinical procedures
- excellent communication skills
- the ability to inspire trust and confidence
- the ability to work in a team (teamwork skills) is extremely important
Entry Requirements:
To become a Gynaecologist, you will need to complete several years of education and training beyond high school. While specific subjects are not typically required, having a strong academic background in science and mathematics can be advantageous. Here are some recommended subjects and a pathway to becoming a Gynaecologist:
- Science Subjects: A strong foundation in science subjects is crucial for aspiring medical professionals, including Gynaecologists. Consider taking Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. These subjects provide the necessary background for advanced medical studies.
- Mathematics: Mathematics skills are essential for medical studies and calculations related to patient care.
- English: Good communication skills, including reading and writing, are vital for medical professionals.
- Additional Science or Health-Related Subjects: Consider taking other science or health-related subjects, such as Human Biology or Health and Social Care, if available. These can provide additional knowledge and context for your future medical studies.
Post School
Before you train as an obstetrician and gynaecologist you must complete a degree in medicine and have obtained a MBBS or equivalent qualification.
You then need to complete a two-year foundation programme. After successfully completing your first year of foundation training, you become eligible for registration as a doctor with the General Medical Council (GMC).
Foundation training includes undertaking rotations in a range of specialties including O&G.
In the UK, when you apply for a course in medicine, you could be asked to take the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) or BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT). They test the skills you’ll need on the course, like critical thinking, problem-solving, data analysis, communication and scientific knowledge.
Working Hours and Environment:
You can work more than 40 hours a week. You may also be on a rota for out-of-hours emergency work and making home visits.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you may go on to lead a team or manage a department.
With experience and entry on the General Medical Council (GMC) Specialist Register, you could apply for senior (or consultant) roles.
You may also progress to teaching and training students, trainee doctors and other healthcare professionals.