 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. These physicians often work as
part of a team coordinating care for a population of patients; they are
less independent than solo practitioners of the past.
 Surgeons
and anesthesiologists typically 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. Over one-third of
full-time physicians and surgeons worked 60 hours or more a week in
2004. Only 8 percent of all physicians and surgeons worked part-time,
compared with 16 percent for all occupations. Physicians and surgeons
must travel frequently between office and hospital to care for their
patients. Those who are on call deal with many patients' concerns over
the phone and may 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.
|
|
