Source: David Tonelson. MCAT books. Dreamstime.com (https://www.dreamstime.com/mcat-books-view-shelf-dedicated-to-several-study-guide-books-subject-mcat-test-seen-local-bookstore-image175773578)
The MCAT(Medical College Admission Test) is a multiple-choice, computer-based exam that is needed for nearly all medical schools in the U.S. and several medical schools in Canada. Rather than other standardized tests, many health professional schools and graduated programs now accept MCAT scores. The MCAT exam tests its students on the skills and understanding of medical educators and students, as well as what real doctors and physicians have recognized as essential things for success in medical school and practicing medicine as a whole. The test is divided into these four sections:
The MCAT exam is administered multiple times a year, between the end of January through September, at hundreds of different test sites around the U.S. and Canada, as well as other select locations around the world. For more information about the MCAT exam, click here!
Medical school is organized into two parts, each traditionally being two years long: pre-clinical and clinical. The preclinical phase includes science training where you learn about the basic medical and treatment concepts, the structure and function of the body, diseases, and diagnoses. It is during this phase where you’ll also learn the basics of doctoring, such as getting medical histories and other essential concepts needed.
The clinical portion of training typically includes clinical rotations, during which med students will receive basic training and hands-on experiences with patients in the main medical specialties. To learn more about medical school, click here!
First year residents are closely monitored and supervised by senior residents, attendings, nurses, etc. They must develop and implement a plan for self-directed learning, reading and researching of topics that promote personal and professional growth. Then be able to demonstrate successful use of the literature when dealing with patients.
Second year residents are expected to perform duties learned in the first year independently and may supervise routine activities of the first-year residents. They also may respond to consults and learn the elements of an appropriate response to consultation with another faculty member. The resident should take a leadership role in teaching the first years and med students the practical aspects of patient care. They should also be able to incorporate ethical concepts into patient care and discuss with the patient, family, or other team members.
Third year residents are capable of managing patients with virtually any condition and are able to supervise the first and second years in their daily activities. They are also responsible for coordinating the care of multiple patients on the team and can perform more complex procedures under the direct supervision of a senior. Third years should be able to demonstrate the ability to research selected topics and present these to the team. At the end of the third year, the resident should be ready to practice pediatrics independently.
A pediatrics attending is basically a pediatrician. Most pediatricians who work as primary care doctors, so they will ask questions to diagnose medical issues, educate patients and their families about proper care management, write prescriptions for medications, and make referrals to other specialists as needed.
Pediatricians need to have good communication skills and patience since children can’t explain their conditions very well and parents are too overwhelmed and stressed to think straight. They must ensure that their patient’s caretaker is fully aware of the risks associated with the condition that was diagnosed and be able to fulfill all the needs of the patient to keep them alive and well.