An oncologist, also known as an oncology specialist, is a doctor who studies and treats cancerous tumors. The path to becoming an oncology specialist is comparable to that of medical internists or general practitioners. To work as an oncology specialist, you’ll need a college or bachelor’s degree, preferably with a science major. If one does not want to major in science, he only needs to complete the prerequisite courses for medical school. Biology, chemistry, calculus, and physics are common examples.
A person must enroll in medical school after graduating from college or university. A medical student typically completes four years of study and training in medical school. A medical school diploma qualifies a graduate to sit for the medical board examination. If he passes this exam, he will be a certified doctor or a general physician who can see and treat patients. Only a few more years of training are required to become an oncology specialist.
After passing the medical board exam, the next step in becoming an oncology specialist is to choose a specialty. The residency program is the name given to this specialization training. To be successful in a particular medical specialty, such as oncology, one must continue to study oncology cases in an oncology or cancer treatment center. A four-year residency program to become an oncology specialist is typical.
Throughout the four years, the resident doctor will be supervised by a number of practicing oncologists. He must research and learn the unique characteristics of a variety of cancers that affect men and women of all ages. He will be exposed to cancer patients as a resident oncology doctor and will assist in the management of their cases. He will be able to learn about the important aspects of cancer management as well as the various cancer treatment options through this training.
The residency program for oncologists includes research as well. A resident doctor will also be expected to attend conferences and seminars to further his knowledge in oncology and other related specializations. After completing residency, one can apply for oncology fellowship training. Following all of these trainings, a board exam is usually given. When a candidate passes this exam, he is designated as a certified oncology specialist.
Because of the rising incidence of cancer cases around the world, oncology is a good choice as a specialty. To summarize, a minimum of 12 years of study is required to become an oncology specialist. Four years of college, four years of medical school, and four years of residency training are required.