Gastroenterology jobs involve working with the human digestive tract and diseases or disorders that are associated with the digestive system. There are different gastroenterology jobs such as a medical doctor, nurse, or a pediatric gastroenterologist. These positions require a large amount of education and several medical internships. Gastroenterology jobs can provide rewarding work with a good salary and benefits.
One of the hardest gastroenterology jobs may be a medical doctor in the field of gastroenterology. These doctors are called gastroenterologists. They specialize in treating and possibly curing all forms of digestive diseases. Sometimes these specialists have their own private practice. This can come at a high cost, and some gastroenterologists will hire on other doctors and nurses to help run the practice.
Some doctors may be able to find gastroenterology jobs at a hospital setting. Hospital gastroenterologists often work on shifts. They are called in to help with emergency situations and sometimes surgeries. This type of work can require long hours and the ability to work with other doctors and nurses.
Some gastroenterologists want to work in pediatric care. These doctors focus on children who have digestive issues. Pediatric doctors can practice medicine on infants to teenagers. Even though all gastroenterologists have to pass medical school and a long internship, pediatric doctors also have to complete a pediatric residency and then another residency in gastroenterology specific to children.
Some people choose to become a nurse or nurse practitioner in gastroenterology. A gastroenterology nurse will assist the doctor in treatment for the patient along with vital signs and check up on patients with ongoing conditions. Nurses often work long shifts at a doctor's office or hospital. These nurses have to have specific education in the field of gastroenterology.
A nurse practitioner has to have more education than a nurse. A practitioner is very similar to a doctor, except he or she did not complete medical school. Nurse practitioners are often seen by patients, especially if the patient does not have a critical medical issue. They often converse with the doctors on the best form of treatment.
There are experienced gastroenterologists who stop practicing medicine in order to teach others about gastroenterology. There may be gastroenterology jobs at a university or college that offers medical school. Some gastroenterologists complete extensive research in the field in order to help create new treatments and medical procedures. These jobs are usually funded by health care companies or government grants.