medicinegirl said:
Hi all,
I'm a 3rd year osteopathic med student interested in endocrine peds. I was just wondering if anyone had any insight about this field re: How competitive is it? What are the pro's and cons?
Any comment would be helpful! Thanks in advance
Pediatric endocrinology is a great field for those who enjoy intellectual diagnostic challenges, who like to work with families in long-term management of problems like diabetes and growth disorders and who have an interest in EITHER basic science or patient-oriented research.
Some pediatric endocrinologists mostly see certain conditions such as diabetes and others may spend more time on growth and bone-related disorders. Like every field, there are some less than fun visits ("my child is overweight because of a gland problem, not too much food") and some difficult and sick patients (unstable diabetics).
There are no procedures in the field and one spends a large amount of time managing each patient - often difficult referral patients. Therefore, it is not surprising that reimbursement is relatively low and competition for fellowship spots non-existent. Relatively speaking it is not too lifestyle-unfriendly, with only occasional disasters that require losing a night of sleep as an attending.
I have tremendous respect for endocrinologists as colleagues in patient-management and as fellow researchers and I think those in the field generally find it very rewarding.
If that description fits you, then look for a residency that has an active pedi endo service, preferably more than one person, and good luck.
Although I am not a pedi endocrinologist, some of my best friends are
🙂 and I'd be glad to discuss by PM the field with you or refer you to some of the leaders in the field for you to email
Regards
OBP
