5 Fascinating Specialties Med Students Should Consider

 
Whether you are just starting medical school or in a residency program like Rachel Tobin Yale, you will eventually have to choose a specialty. There are so many to choose from that you can find one you will be passionate about for your entire career.

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1. Internal Medicine

This specialty requires a broad range of knowledge. They concentrate on disorders and diseases affecting the digestive, respiratory, vascular, musculoskeletal, renal and cardiovascular systems. Internists treat blood disorders as well. They also know how psychological health is linked to physical health.

2. Genetics

Medical geneticists can work in various settings. Some work in labs where they research genes that produce molecules, such as Surfactant protein C, that are related to genetic disorders. Other medical geneticists work directly with private and hospital physicians to diagnose genetic disorders.

3. Neurology

As the name implies, neurologists specialize in the nervous system. Therefore, they diagnose and treat issues with the spine, brain, nerves and blood vessels. This includes brain infections like meningitis and disorders like Alzheimer's, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis.

4. Radiology

Radiologists use imaging methods like MRIs and ultrasounds to examine someone for suspected disorders and injuries. They may also treat cancer patients with radiation therapy. Radiologists can choose to specialize in certain areas of the body like the heart, lungs, breasts, brain or digestive system. Some radiologists work only with children or in emergency departments.

5. Pathology

Pathologists focus on analyzing diseases. They perform tests on bodily materials, like blood and tissue samples, to check for specific diseases. They may work primarily with internists and surgeons in hospitals to assist in diagnosing patients. Some narrow their concentration even further and work only with specialists like dermatologists or gynecologists.

Pathologists can also find work outside of the medical field as forensic pathologists. These specialists are very important to the criminal justice system. They are in charge of examining bodies to determine the causes of suspicious deaths.