Really like Neonatology, but Don't like Pediatrics

[Ploppit]

I really like neonatology, but don't particularly enjoy pediatrics. In other words - I think I would love practicing neonatology, but if I were to only practice peds, I wouldn't be so happy and would prefer another field.

I seem to be the only one who feels this way...Is it just a matter of not having enough experience? Would you only suggest neo to someone who really likes peds?

Any thoughts/advice appreciated!

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[oldbearprofessor]

I really like neonatology, but don't particularly enjoy pediatrics. In other words - I think I would love practicing neonatology, but if I were to only practice peds, I wouldn't be so happy and would prefer another field.

I seem to be the only one who feels this way...Is it just a matter of not having enough experience? Would you only suggest neo to someone who really likes peds?

Any thoughts/advice appreciated!

This one has come up a few times before. You have to realize that to become a pediatric specialist, including a neonatologist, you will need to complete a 3 year pediatric residency. If you would really hate that, then don't go this route. However, after that you can spend the rest of your medical life in the NICU and never venture out if that is what you wish.

So, my answer is, if you really don't like pediatrics, don't become a pediatrician, even a specialist. But, if you like pediatrics enough to do a residency, then go for it and specialize.

My experience in working with lots of neonatologists and fellows is that most like their residency overall, but dislike specific aspects (in my case, adolescent medicine)

 

[michigangirl]

Ditto. If you don't like taking care of kids, don't go into pediatrics, which unfortunately means no neonatology. Like OBP, I hated adolescent medicine and ambulatory care-- but loved the PICU and NICU, hence doing PICU. Didn't mind the general peds floors and liked the specialty services, which meant I just didn't like taking care of healthy kids, but liked taking care of critical illness in kids.

I guess it's important to express- why don't you think you like pediatrics?