Events
Information for Pre-Medical Students
Overview of the Profession
Job titles and occupational descriptions on this list were compiled from information published by the American Medical Association's 30th Editions of the Health Professions Career and Education Directory
Physicians serve a fundamental role in our society and have an effect upon all our lives. They diagnose illnesses and prescribe and administer treatment from people suffering from injury or disease. They examine patients, obtain medical histories, and order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests. They counsel patients on diet, hygiene, and preventative health care. There are two types of physicians: The M.D.-Doctor of Medicine-and the D.O.-Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. About one-third of M.D.'s are primary care physicians. They practice general and family medicine, general internal medicine, or general pediatrics and are usually the first health professionals patients consult. D.O.'s place special emphasis on the body's musculoskeletal system, preventative medicine, and holistic patient health care.