How to become a Surgeon
A surgeon is a specialist in the field of
surgery. Surgeons perform surgery to repair, alter or improve body functions. Becoming a surgeon, as with a doctor, requires a lot of preparation from
an early age. Subjects at school level, such as Biology, Mathematics and Science
need to be above a certain standard in order to qualify for further studies at
a University. Profgrad would like to
discuss in detail how one will go about becoming a Surgeon. Profgrad.co.za
provides a summary of how to become a surgeon on the website below.
How
many years of study?
In order to become a surgeon one needs to
study and complete the necessary qualification at an approved University. In
South Africa not all Universities offer this as a degree. The degree will be
offered at University of Pretoria, University of Stellenbosch, University of
the Witwatersrand, Walter Sisulu University, University of KwaZulu Natal,
University of the Free State, University of Cape Town and University of Limpopo.
You would need to apply to a University of your choice. The selection process
is quite strict and only a select few applications get approved. It will be
good if you could do job shadowing and charity volunteering before you apply. You
might want to apply at more than one University. You will need to become a
qualified doctor. After completing this degree {MBChB}, you will need to study
another 3-4 years depending on the specialty.
What
is the degree called?
This degree is generally known as a MMed
Degree. This abbreviation is short for Master of Medicine. It is a post
graduate qualification that follows your MBChB degree. You will still need to
attend lectures and complete educational activities. However, most of the
degree will be of a practical nature.
Do I
Need to do Community Service or continuous development?
You will need to register with the Health
Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). In order to become a surgeon you
would need to do 4 years registrarship. Registrarship will consist of in depth knowledge
of different aspects of a specific specialty. During this time you will learn
the most complex aspects of your profession and will need to do research
assignments and dissertations. Once completed, you will need to write an assessment.
It will be required of you to do continuous development as the industry is
always changing.
A general description of your life as a Surgeon
Surgeons usually get referrals from General
Practitioners. You are booked out weeks in advance and work strictly on an
appointment basis. Once you have seen the patient and identified whether an
operation is necessary, you will be able to book a surgery for the specific procedure.
You will be able to plan your days in advance and you will be able to determine
the amount of hours you work per week. You will usually have your own practice.
Being a surgeon requires you to do post operation care. You will not work
office hours and might need to schedule surgeries after hours.
Do you plan to become a surgeon?
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