How to Become a Neonatal Doctor
- 1). Complete baccalaureate and graduate education. The path to practicing neonatal medicine begins with completion of a four-year college degree and a four-year medical degree, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges. Although medical schools will accept students who do not complete a prescribed pre-medical curriculum or major in a biological science, the AAMC notes that medical schools do have specific prerequisites in the sciences before admitting a student for graduate study. Undergraduate courses in biology, organic and inorganic chemistry, physics and psychology will help prepare you for medical school. In medical school, coursework in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology and microbiology will form the foundation of medical education.
- 2). Undergo specialized training. Medical school graduates who want to become neonatal doctors must complete four years of specialized residency training in pediatrics and then complete three years of fellowship training in neonatal and perinatal medicine. Although each medical school fellowship program organizes its curriculum differently, all training programs aim to give a mix of hands-on training in the neonatal intensive care unit, outpatient clinic experience treating sick babies or mothers with high-risk pregnancies, and research experience.
- 3). Pass board certification examinations. Neonatal doctors must pass a board certification examination in general pediatrics as well as a special examination in neonatal medicine, according to the American Board of Medical Specialties. After passing both certification exams, neonatal doctors must continue their learning by attending continuing education courses each year. Board certificates expire every seven to 10 years, depending on the specialty, so neonatal doctors must take recertification exams throughout their careers to ensure they stay current.
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