The field of gastroenterology is a very specialized field and involves years of study, internship, and fellowship before being considered fully qualified to practice in this field of medicine. So how long does it take? By most accounts, it takes at least 12 years of study, internship, and fellowship in order to be a gastroenterologist.
Education
When it comes to a qualified gastroenterologist, the most important part, first and foremost, is the education. A Jacksonville gastroenterology doctor is required to have about the same amount of education as a doctor of internal medicine. That means four years of undergraduate study plus four years of medical study and three years of residency. After completing all of this, there is typically an additional three years of fellowship required on top of the years of education and internship.
It is not just the amount and level of education either. The gastroenterology field of medicine, just like most other areas of medicine, is very demanding, and only those that excel at each level of education will then be accepted to study at the next level. Only those that perform at the top of their class will then be asked to continue their studies, and only those who excel at their studies will be asked to join internships and fellowships.
Internship
Now, after completing the many years of education, the next part of becoming a gastroenterologist is to take part in an internship. This typically lasts for three years. An internship insures that the aspiring doctor is qualified to diagnose and treat the disorders associated with the digestive tract. This on the job training is very important.
Fellowship
Following the internship is the fellowship. What a fellowship does is further training specific to the area of gastroenterology. Aspiring gastroenterologists get endoscopic training, training on hepatology and nutrition, and some fellowship even include exposure to pediatric training. There is substantial time spent on relevant gastrointestinal procedures and treatments.
Finally, after completing all of the education and training, a doctor can finally practice in the field of Jacksonville gastroenterology. There is a lot of education and training involved and this field, like most other fields of medicine, so becoming a gastroenterologist requires a tremendous amount of dedication and commitment. This field is quickly growing not only in Jacksonville but throughout the rest of the United States.
The rate of growth does not appear to be slowing down anytime soon either. A gastroenterologist is a doctor for life. They are a lifetime partner that can certainly help lead to a very long and healthy life. For most adults, it is wise to see a gastroenterologist on a regular basis, even if there are currently no health issues. Regular screenings and checkups can prevent a lot of potential health issues or treat any early health issues before they become something much bigger.
Digestive Disease Consultants serves patients in the greater Jacksonville, Florida area. A Jacksonville gastroenterology doctor specializes in helping patients maintain digestive health, which includes both gastroenterology and hepatology. The highly skilled staff provides medical care and personal attention in discussing the diagnosis and treatment plan for each individual’s digestive health needs.
