Exploring Careers as a Healthcare Surgeon

Choosing a career in healthcare or medicine offers the opportunity to make a profound impact on people's lives. Each role within this field comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards, making it essential for students to understand the specifics of each career path. In this edition, we explore some of the most popular and rewarding careers in healthcare as a surgeon, highlighting the unique aspects, potential career options, and required skills for each profession. Dive into the world of healthcare and discover how you can make a difference.

1. Neurologists

Image credits: Verywell Health

Neurologists specialize in the surgical treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves. This career requires precision, patience, and a deep understanding of the nervous system. Neurosurgeons often handle complex procedures like brain tumor removal, spinal cord surgeries, and treating traumatic brain injuries.

Some Career Options:

- Pediatric Neurologist –> Specializes in neurological disorders in children.

- Spine Surgeon –> Focuses on surgical treatments for spinal disorders.

- Neuro-Oncologist –> Specializes in surgeries related to brain and spinal tumors.

Career potential (retrieved from the U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS):

- 2023 Mean pay : $$271,470 per year/ $130.51 per hour

- Amount of jobs projected to grow 8.6% from 2022 to 2032

Skill Required:

- Exceptional hand-eye coordination

- Strong decision-making skills

- Extensive medical knowledge in neurology

- Ability to work under high-pressure situations

2. Anesthesiologist

Image credits: Association of Hospital Anesthesiologists

Anesthesiologists are responsible for administering anesthesia to patients undergoing surgery or other medical procedures. They monitor patients' vital signs, such as heart rate and rhythm, breathing, blood pressure, body temperature and body fluid balance, during surgery and adjust anesthesia levels as necessary. This career is ideal for those who excel in critical thinking and have a strong understanding of pharmacology and physiology..

Some Career Options:

- Pediatric Anesthesiologist –> Specializes in administering anesthesia to infants and children.

- Cardiac Anesthesiologist –> Focuses on patients undergoing heart-related surgeries.

- Pain Management Specialist –> Manages chronic pain in patients through various techniques and medications.

Career potential (retrieved from the U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS):

- 2023 Mean pay : $339,470 per year/ $163.21 per hour

- Amount of jobs projected to grow 5.4% from 2022 to 2032

Skills Required:

- Strong knowledge of anesthesia techniques and medications

- Excellent monitoring and assessment skills

- Ability to remain calm under pressure

- Detailed understanding of human physiology

3. Radiologist

Image credits: Ross University School of Medicine

Radiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries using medical imaging techniques such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans. This career requires strong analytical skills and a keen eye for detail, as radiologists interpret complex images to diagnose conditions..

Some Career Options:

- Interventional Radiologist –> Performs minimally invasive procedures guided by imaging.

- Diagnostic Radiologist –> Focuses on interpreting medical images to diagnose diseases.

- Radiation Oncologist –> Specializes in treating cancer with radiation therapy.

Career potential (retrieved from the U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS):

- 2023 Mean pay : $353,960 per year/ $170.17 per hour

- Amount of jobs projected to grow 5.2% from 2022 to 2032

Skills Required:

- Proficiency in medical imaging technology

- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

- Attention to detail

- Ability to work with advanced medical software

4. Orthopedic Surgeons

Image credit:

Orthopaedic Associates

Orthopedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal system disorders, which include bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. They perform surgeries to correct injuries and deformities, manage arthritis, and repair broken bones.

Some Career Options:

- Sports Medicine Orthopedic Surgeon –> Focuses on treating sports-related injuries.

- Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon –> Specializes in musculoskeletal issues in children.

- Spine Surgeon –> Treats disorders of the spine through surgical procedures.

Career potential (retrieved from the U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS):

- 2023 Mean pay : $378,250 per year/ $181.85 per hour

- Amount of jobs projected to grow 6.1% from 2022 to 2032

Skills Required:

- Strong knowledge of musculoskeletal anatomy

- Excellent surgical skills

- Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities

- Physical stamina for long surgeries

5. Dermatologists

Image credits:

Oasis Dermatology

Dermatologists specialize in treating skin, hair, and nail conditions. This career is ideal for those who are detail-oriented and have an interest in skin health and cosmetic procedures.

Some Career Options:

- Cosmetic Dermatologist –> Focuses on improving the appearance of skin through procedures such as Botox and fillers.

- Pediatric Dermatologist –> Specializes in treating skin conditions in children.

- Dermatopathologist –> Diagnoses skin diseases at a microscopic level.

Career potential (retrieved from the U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS):

- 2023 Mean pay : $342,760 per year/ $164.84 per hour

- Amount of jobs projected to grow 7.8% from 2022 to 2032

Skills Required:

- Extensive knowledge of skin conditions and treatments

- Strong attention to detail

- Excellent interpersonal skills

- Ability to perform precise and delicate procedures

Choosing a healthcare or medicine career can lead to a fulfilling and impactful profession. Each discipline offers unique opportunities and challenges, so it’s important to consider your interests, strengths, and career aspirations when making your decision. Explore, learn, and embark on your journey to making a difference through healthcare and medicine. Stay tuned for the next edition, which will focus on other non-surgical medical professions!