Pulmonologist
Career Overview
Pulmonologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the respiratory system. They handle conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and lung cancer. Pulmonologists work in hospitals or specialized pulmonary centers, sometimes collaborating with other specialists, such as cardiologists or sleep specialists, to provide comprehensive care. Their work is essential for patients dealing with both chronic and acute respiratory issues, especially as respiratory health becomes a growing concern worldwide due to factors like climate change.
Daily Responsibilities
Conduct and interpret diagnostic tests, like chest X-rays
Diagnose and treat respiratory conditions, such as asthma, bronchitis, and interstitial lung disease
Manage and oversee treatment for patients with chronic respiratory issues
Perform procedures, such as bronchoscopy
Educate patients on managing respiratory conditions and preventing illnesses
Education and Training
Undergraduate Education - Bachelor’s Degree [4 years]
Medical School - Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) [4 years]
Residency [3 years]
Fellowship for Pulmonary Medicine [2-3 years]
Licensure - American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) exams
Salary
Entry Level: $200,000 - $250,000
Experienced: $250,000 - $400,000+
Job Outlook
The demand for pathologists is expected to remain steady, with a growing need for specialized diagnostics as the population ages and more sophisticated medical technologies emerge. Pathologists are in high demand in hospitals, private labs, and academic research.
Skills and Qualities
Manual Dexterity
Patience and Resilience
Analytical Skills
Critical Care Skills
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Related Careers
Respiratory Therapist
Allergist/Immunologist
Cardiologist
Thoracic Surgeon
Critical Care Physician
Additional Resources
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22210-pulmonologist
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulmonology