In this article, you will be able to learn on how to become a doctor as well as the requirements and skills required.

Who is a Doctor?

A doctor is someone trained to heal or restore the health of the sick. He or she has the knowledge of diagnosing and treating human diseases, ailments, injuries, pain or other conditions. This is achieved by looking for related signs and then using their scientific knowledge to look for the best way to treat the ailment. There is a specific type of doctor for almost every major system located in the human body.

Degree Level: Bachelor’s Degree

Field of study: Medicine and Surgery, biology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, pharmacology, pathology, anatomy and physiology, biochemistry

Key skills: Commitment, time management, keen to detail, dedication, team work, excellent listening skills, problem solver, leadership, empathy, and communication, as well as proficiency with specialized tools and technology.

Doctor Job Salary: Ksh250,000- 400,000 including allowances

What does a Doctor do?

Prescribing and reviewing patients’ medication, investigating, diagnosing and treating the health conditions of patients, providing medical support, teaching and supervising trainee doctors, working with other doctors, healthcare professionals and management staff, taking accurate notes, as a legal record and for other healthcare professionals to use and also educating people about their health.

Steps of becoming a Doctor

• Education

To start your career in becoming a doctor, you must ensure that you score good grades in Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and also Physics. To secure a direct government admission to university for this career, you must have an average grade of a plain A and for self-sponsored a B+ and above. You will pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) from a recognized university which takes six years. It’s during this time that you will specialize in the area of interest.

• Training

Once you graduate, you will be expected to participate in a one year training program at a public or private hospital. During this time you will be supervised to ensure you master what is expected of you.

• Acquisition of a license

This is the last step of becoming a doctor. You must register with the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Board. You will be issued with a license. It’s your turn now to look for job opportunities.

• Job opportunities

A doctor can work in public health organizations, teaching facilities, private practices, group practices and hospitals. Some of them even opt to start their own clinics. Those more experienced may become a team leader or the head of a department.

• Group Association

Doctors have an association called Kenya Medical Association which promotes and guards their interests and rights. Joining such an association will give you the opportunity to network, get exposure to different seminars, conferences and job opportunities.