Physicians

Many physicians work in private offices or clinics, with more practicing in physician groups or in health care organizations for better work-life balance. Surgeons and anesthesiologists typically work in hospitals or outpatient centers, while some physicians work in research, medical schools, or in Veteran Administration and Indian Health Service clinics. Physicians often work long, irregular hours, especially when on call, handling patient concerns and making emergency visits.

Physician salaries vary greatly depending on setting and on specialty. Self employed physicians typically earn higher salaries than those employed, but they must cover their own practice insurance, health insurance, and retirement. Physicians working in specialties such as anesthesiology, cardiology, neurology, radiology, and urology earn more than physicians working in primary care (family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics).

Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Physician Workforce Projections, 2021 – 2036, projects that there will be a shortage of certain specialties and a surplus of other specialties by 2036. Continued demand for health care services will also drive the need for physicians.

Becoming a physician requires completing medical school, which typically follows a bachelor’s degree, often in a science heavy “pre-med” track. Pre-med students study subjects like physics, biology, chemistry, and math. After earning their degree, applicants must take the MCAT, with medical school admission being highly competitive. Medical school involves four years of education and clinical training, followed by 3 to 8 years of internship and residency, depending on the specialty. Some schools offer combined undergraduate and medical programs lasting six to seven years.

To be licensed as a physician in New York, an individual must graduate from an accredited medical school, complete an accredited residency program, and pass the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). While board certification is not required for licensure in New York, most physicians are board certified by the board of their specialty. Board certification usually includes written and oral tests that evaluate both the knowledge and experience of the physician.

Financial support can come from various federal, state, and private sources for undergraduate education. Contact your college or university to learn about the financial aid options they offer, as well as other potential sources of funding that may be available.

Most medical schools offer need-based and merit based scholarships, with the financial aid office serving as the primary resource for information on grants and loans. Once admitted, students should explore options with the school’s financial aid office. Scholarships are also available during medical school through the National Health Service Corps or through a number of state programs in exchange for a service commitment in a federally designated shortage area.