he realm of medicine is quite widespread with its branches covering almost all the infections and diseases affecting the body. Neurology is one such branch which deals with the problems related to the nervous system. This medical branch deals with the diagnosis, diseases and treatment methods for the same, related to the brain and nervous system. Hence a neurologist is a specialist who deals with patients who suffer from brain injuries, cerebral palsy, coma, encephalitis, migraine headaches, meningitis, sleep disorders, speech and language impediments etc. Becoming a neurologist holds a high degree of responsibility in terms of the patient’s treatment and after-care. Since the nature of work can be quite taxing and may also require long hours of working, the aspiring candidate should be fit physically as well as mentally. Read through the following paragraphs for information regarding the education and job description of a neurologist.

Neurologist Job Description

A neurologist’s career is one full of challenges and responsibilities. Earning a degree in neurology is not that difficult and can be accomplished in four years of study. Five years of residency is also a must to become a neurologist. Here is a brief guide on how to become a neurologist and put this study into practice.

• In order to become a neurologist, one should obtain a bachelor’s degree in science. The candidate may specialize in any stream like biology or chemistry. Some medical schools may also focus on prerequisite courses physics, chemistry (both organic and inorganic) and zoology for a bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree will be an added advantage.
• After the completion of the bachelor’s degree, the candidate may have to appear for the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) to get accepted into a medical college. After four years of extensive study, the candidate can apply for internship in any hospital which has a neurology department. You can work as an intern under an experienced neurosurgeon.
• Once you are done with the internship, you can apply for a residency program, where you can specialize in a certain area of study. After the residency, to qualify as a full-fledged neurosurgeon, and for intense training in the field, opt for a fellowship. The duration of this program can be decided by the candidate.
• Apart from the regular degree for becoming a neurologist, training in general surgery, pediatrics, internal medicine and other specialties is also required. The candidate aspiring to become a neurosurgeon should also invest two to three years in clinical and investigative training, which is a part of the neurology sub-specialty program.
• On the completion of studies, in order to practice as a neurologist, you may have to apply for a license. For this you will have to take oral as well as written tests conducted by the American Board of Medicinal Specialties, whose rules may vary according to the state. A certificate from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) is also a must, if you want to set up your practice.
• Neurologists can set up a private practice or offer their services in hospitals. Though the job of a neurologist is a challenging one, the remuneration offered is also quite satisfactory. This is one of the highest paid jobs with a wide salary range. The average salary of a neurologist on an annual basis can range from $150,000 to $220,000. The annual salary may get a perk up to about $300,000 based on the experience and years of practice.

This was all about how to become a neurologist. Apart from the degree, in order to be a successful neurologist one must possess qualities like compassion, self motivation and a decisive nature. If you are fascinated with the working of the brain and the nervous system, and love taking up challenges, then you know what career to choose. Wish you luck! By Marlene Alphonse

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