How to become a physician

Pathways to this career

1. Physicians must complete undergraduate studies such as a bachelor degree in medicine or surgery.
2. Alternatively, study a degree in health or biomedical science before completing postgraduate studies in medicine, allowing you to qualify for a medical residency.
3. Complete a 1-2 year residency in hospitals or community practices to meet work experience requirements and get on-the-job training from professional physicians.
4. Register with the Medical Board of Australia to qualify as a practising physician.
5. Complete a fellowship to become an expert physician and specialise in a particular area of medicine.

What does a physician do?

Physicians diagnose diseases, illnesses, and disorders, and administer healing treatments. They often work highly stressful but rewarding jobs and can be employed in several places, including hospitals, private clinics, schools, and the armed forces.

Duties and tasks

• Ask patients to explain symptoms and diagnose possible issues.
• Maintain doctor and patient confidentiality.
• Manage residents, nurses, interns etc.
• Prescribe medications to patients.
• Recommend patients to a specialist if necessary.
• Request additional tests, blood work, etc. if necessary to determine a health issue, refer to patient files as necessary.

Industry bodies

• Australian Medical Association (WA)
• Australian Medical Association Queensland
• Australian Medical Council (AMC)
• Medical Board of Australia
• The Medical Council of New South Wales
• The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)

Related jobs

• Anthropologist
• Cardiac technologist
• Life scientist
• Medical practitioner
• Pathologist
• Public health physician
• Radiologist
• Sports doctor
• Surgeon