Are you thinking of becoming a family doctor? Aspiring family physicians must understand the educational, training and licensing requirements needed to enter this rewarding career. In this article, we will discuss how long it takes to become a family doctor and what is required to complete the journey.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Family Doctor?
Becoming a family doctor typically takes a minimum of 11 years after high school. That includes four years of undergraduate study, four years of medical school and three years of residency training. After completing these steps, family physicians must pass a licensing exam to practice in their state.
Undergraduate Degree
The first step to becoming a family doctor is to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree. There is no specific undergraduate major required for medical school, but it is important to take courses in the sciences. This includes biology, chemistry and physics. Additionally, aspiring family physicians should take courses in the humanities, such as literature, philosophy and psychology, to develop their communication skills.
Medical School
After completing their undergraduate degree, aspiring family doctors must apply to and be accepted by a medical school. Medical school typically lasts four years and consists of classroom and lab instruction, as well as clinical rotations in hospitals and medical offices. During medical school, future family doctors will learn how to diagnose and treat diseases, as well as how to interact with patients.
Residency Training
After graduating from medical school, aspiring family doctors must complete a residency program. Residency programs typically last three years and are focused on a specialty. Family doctors must complete a residency program in family medicine. During this time, doctors will receive supervised training in family medicine, as well as learn how to manage a medical practice.
Licensing Exam
Once aspiring family doctors have completed their residency training, they must pass a licensing exam. This exam, called the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), tests a doctor’s knowledge of medical theory and practice. Once doctors pass this exam, they can apply for a medical license in their state and begin practicing as a family doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Family Doctor
What undergraduate degree do I need to become a family doctor?
There is no specific undergraduate degree required for medical school. However, aspiring family doctors should take courses in the sciences, such as biology, chemistry and physics, as well as courses in the humanities, such as literature, philosophy and psychology.
How long does it take to complete medical school?
Medical school typically takes four years to complete. This includes classroom and lab instruction, as well as clinical rotations in hospitals and medical offices.
What is required to become a licensed family doctor?
To become a licensed family doctor, aspiring physicians must complete a four-year bachelor’s degree, four years of medical school, a three-year residency program and pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).
What is the USMLE?
The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is a licensing exam that tests a doctor’s knowledge of medical theory and practice. Once a physician passes this exam, they can apply for a medical license in their state and begin practicing as a family doctor.
Conclusion
Becoming a family doctor is a long and challenging process. It typically takes 11 years to complete the journey from high school to becoming a licensed family doctor. This includes completing a four-year bachelor’s degree, four years of medical school, a three-year residency program and passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). Despite the long journey, becoming a family doctor is a rewarding experience that can make a real difference in people’s lives.
