 Day in the Life
Many physicians -- primarily general and family practitioners, general
internists, pediatricians, ob/gyns, and psychiatrists -- work in small
private offices or clinics, often assisted by a small staff of
physician assistants,
nurses,
and other administrative personnel. Increasingly, physicians are
practicing in groups or health care organizations that provide backup
coverage and allow for more time off.
Physicians in a group
practice or healthcare organization often work as part of a team that
coordinates care for a number of patients; they are less independent
than the solo practitioners of the past. Surgeons and anesthesiologists
usually work in well-lighted, sterile environments while performing
surgery and often stand for long periods. Most work in hospitals or in
surgical outpatient centers.
Many
physicians and surgeons work long, irregular hours. Forty three percent
of all physicians and surgeons work 50 or more hours a week. Nine
percent of all physicians and surgeons worked part-time. Physicians and
surgeons travel between office and hospital to care for their patients.
While on call, a physician will deal with many patients' concerns over
the phone and make emergency visits to hospitals or nursing homes.
Note: Some resources in this section are provided by the US Department
of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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