Government of New Brunswick
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Medical Specialist

Medical Specialists are doctors who have completed advanced education and clinical training in a specific area of medicine such as:  Anesthesiology, Cardiology, Dermatology, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Hematology, Allergy and Immunology, Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Nephrology, Neurology, Medical Oncology, Pediatrics, Pulmonary Medicine, Psychiatry, Rheumatology or other specialty.


An Exciting Field of Work

In general, Medical Specialists:

  • Examine patients to determine medical problems pertaining to their field of expertise
  • Diagnose and treat diseases and physiological disorders
  • Order laboratory tests, X-rays and other diagnostic procedures
  • Prescribe medication and treatment and refer patients for surgery
  • Provide counseling and advice to patients base on their area of specialization
  • Act as consultants to other physicians
  • May conduct medical research


Personal Characteristics / Skills

  • Good communication and interpersonnel skills
  • Good analytical & problem solving skills
  • Professionalism and high ethical standards
  • Compassion and maturity
  • Patience, respect and empathy
  • Excellent listening skills and ability to instill confidence
  • Capacity and eagerness to learn new skills and information


Education and Training

A Bachelor of Science and a Medical Doctor (MD) degree followed by 3 to 5 years of internship and residency, depending on the specialty, is usually required.


Education program offered in New Brunswick

Medical Education programs are offered in New Brunswick by the following educational institutions:


Length of Study / Training

11.0 - 13.0 years


Licence and certification

To practice in New Brunswick, Medical Specialists must be licensed with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of New Brunswick.


Helpful High School Courses

  • Math
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics


Employment and Common Working Conditions

Medical Specialists work in a variety of settings, such as:

  • Private practice
  • Hospitals,
  • Clinics
  • Universities and medical schools

Medical Specialists often work very long and irregular hours. The average workweek is extremely variable and the nature of the job often requires them to be on call at all hours for a variety of emergencies, including evening, weekends and holidays. This type of work can be both emotionally demanding and rewarding.


Employment Prospects - very GOOD

With our aging population, it is anticipated that there will continue to be a high demand for Medical Specialists.