What Is a Resident Doctor?

A resident doctor or resident physician is a recent medical school graduate who is enrolled in a residency (or postgraduate) training program. The period of training is usually fixed, e.g., three to seven years, and resident doctors are supervised by senior doctors. Once they have completed their residency training, they can apply to become board-certified in the specialty of their training. During their residency, doctors have the opportunity to gain valuable clinical experience and learn how to diagnose and treat patients. They may work shifts that last long hours and perform a variety of tasks, such as taking patient histories, ordering and interpreting tests, and providing treatment plans. They also work with other healthcare providers to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.