A neurologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the nervous system, brain, and spinal cord. These conditions include epilepsy, migraines, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, strokes, and many other issues. Neurologists do not perform surgery, yet they commonly work with neurosurgeons when surgical intervention is needed. Additionally, they use diagnostic tools like MRIs, CT scans, and EEGs to assess neurological function. Neurologists often manage long-term care for patients with chronic conditions, therefore requiring great communication skills and empathy. Neurologists may also conduct work and teach in academic settings and conduct research. Overall, neurologists are important medical professionals who play a large role in ensuring the treatment of patients with neurological related disorders.
Neurologists perform a large variety of daily tasks. For instance, they review patient charts and test results. They also conduct in-depth neurological exams and assess motor function, reflexes, coordination, and cognitive abilities. Neurologists also diagnose and treat conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, seizures, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, strokes, and neuropathy. They treat these conditions by prescribing medications or therapies accordingly. Collaboration with other medical professionals is an additional key part of their job. Finally, neurologists also work to educate patients and families about disease management.
Some of the common workplaces of a neurologist are hospitals, outpatient neurology clinics, and academic institutions. In hospitals, they may work on emergency cases or be a part of a stroke team. On the other hand, at outpatient clinics they work on long-term management of chronic neurological conditions. Moreover, neurologists working in an academic setting usually spend time on clinical tasks, teaching, and research. The place where a neurologist works can impact the tasks they complete and their salary.
For someone to become a neurologist, the following steps are required:
First, they must get a bachelor’s degree, most commonly in biology, chemistry, or neuroscience. This takes around 4 years.
Next, they must attend medical school to get a M.D. or D.O. This takes 4 years.
Then, they have to complete a residency in neurology which takes 3-4 years.
Additionally, there is an optional step to complete fellowships in subspecialties such as neuroimmunology or epilepsy. This step takes 1-3 years.
Finally, they must pass a board exam from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN).
To practice legally, neurologists must pass the USMLE or COMLEX exams to get a medical license. While licensure requirements vary from state to state, they typically include background checks and continuing education. Additionally, board certification from the ABPN is highly recommended and frequently required by employers. Board certification includes passing a written exam and maintaining ongoing education through the ABPN’s continuing certification program. Moreover, there are also opportunities to acquire subspecialty certification as well.
Neurologists earn an average of $280K–$350K annually. Salaries often vary based on location, experience, and subspecialty. Additionally, academic positions may give slightly lower salaries, but they still hold the benefit of research and teaching opportunities. With opportunities to increase earnings through subspecialization, salary amounts are slightly growing. In conclusion, neurology provides a stable salary and great opportunities as well.
There is a strong demand expected to grow for neurologists. This is due to aging populations and an increase in neurological disorders. Also, neurologists are becoming more and more involved in diverse care teams. Additionally, location and specialty can affect the job outlook as well. In conclusion, the job outlook for neurologists is very stable and expected to grow in the future.