Fast Facts on Pediatricians

Pediatrics is the medical branch that focuses on the physical and emotional well-being of children. Pediatricians are primarily involved with preventive care, but they also treat children who have minor or serious conditions.

History

• The London Foundling Hospital, specializing in child care, was established in 1745. By the nineteenth century, pediatrics was taught in medical school. It initially focused on infectious disease.

Function

• Pediatricians focus mostly on preventive care, monitoring the physical and emotional health of a child. They also diagnose and treat injuries, infections, behavioral difficulties, depression, and other conditions.

Training

• Pediatricians must complete four years of medical school, followed by three years of pediatric residency; they then must pass an examination to become certified.

Types

• Many pediatricians specialize in a certain field, such as cardiology, pulmonology, endocrinology, or infectious diseases.

Salary

• According to Salary Wizard, the median annual salary for pediatricians is $154,295.