Paediatricians provide healthcare for infants, children and adolescents, dealing with their physical, mental and emotional needs. With a growing demand for paediatric services, this field offers promising career opportunities in Australia.
Paediatricians can work in various settings, including hospitals, community health centres and private practices. Some also contribute to healthcare research and education, shaping the future of paediatric medicine and advancing knowledge in the field.
If you have a passion for working with children and aspire to become a paediatrician, this article provides valuable insights into the education and certification requirements. It also covers the practical experience and professional development necessary for a successful career in the field.
What is paediatrics?
Paediatrics involves the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of medical conditions and developmental issues specific to young patients. It involves working closely with families, providing support and preventive care to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent illness. Paediatrics also encompasses monitoring growth and development, addressing behavioural and social issues, and offering guidance to parents and caregivers.
What is a paediatrician and what does a paediatrician do?
These professionals are trained to diagnose, treat and prevent a wide range of conditions that can affect children, such as cancer, genetic disorders, Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, meningitis, asthma, diabetes, allergies and autism.
Paediatricians collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as nurses, therapists and specialists, to ensure coordinated and holistic care for their young patients. They provide comprehensive medical care, from routine check-ups and vaccinations to managing acute and chronic illnesses.
Paediatricians also contribute to medical research and advancements in paediatric health services. They conduct clinical trials and studies, and share their knowledge and insights to improve treatments and outcomes for children.
With their specialised knowledge and dedication to children's healthcare, paediatricians play a pivotal role in nurturing positive lifestyles and supporting the wellbeing of Australia’s future generations.
What are the roles and responsibilities of a paediatrician?
Paediatricians perform a wide range of roles, tailored to the unique needs of young patients. Some of their key roles and responsibilities include:
- Preventive care: Providing routine check-ups, vaccinations and screenings to monitor growth, development and overall health.
- Treatment and management: Developing personalised treatment plans to address acute and chronic conditions in children. Paediatricians prescribe and administer medications, as well as remedial and therapeutic treatments.
- Diagnostic assessment: Conducting comprehensive medical evaluations to assess the overall health and development of children. This involves conducting physical examinations, reviewing medical histories, performing tests to diagnose and treat various conditions, and maintaining medical records.
- Developmental support: Examining and treating babies after birth, managing the treatment of premature babies, and monitoring and promoting healthy growth and development in children. Paediatricians assess milestones, address behavioural and developmental concerns and provide early intervention services when necessary.
- Education: Educating parents, caregivers and children about various aspects of health and wellbeing. Paediatricians offer guidance on nutrition, safety, mental health and other relevant topics to promote optimal child health.
- Collaborative care: Working closely with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including nurses, therapists and specialists, to provide comprehensive and coordinated care.
- Advocacy: Advocating for the health and rights of children. Paediatricians may be involved in public health campaigns, policy development and community initiatives aimed at improving child health outcomes.
- Research: Contributing to medical research and advancements in paediatric healthcare. Paediatricians conduct clinical trials and studies, and share their expertise to advance medical knowledge and improve treatments for children.
How much do paediatricians earn in Australia?
As the importance of child health and early intervention continues to be recognised, the job prospects for paediatricians in Australia remain promising. The need for paediatric healthcare professionals is evident, considering the prevalence of health conditions among children.
According to the Australian Human Rights Commission, an estimated 5.1 million children live in Australia. Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare suggests this number will reach 6.4 million by 2048.
For infants and children aged under five, the leading health issues are infant and heart conditions, while among children aged five to 14, asthma was the leading health issue, followed by anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, conduct disorder and autism spectrum disorders.
Paediatrician jobs can be found on reputable search platforms like CareerOne, Jora, SEEK, Indeed and LinkedIn. This specialised profession offers competitive remuneration. While specific salary details may vary depending on factors such as experience, location and type of practice, the average Australian paediatrician salary is approximately $310,000.
Beyond financial benefits, working as a paediatrician offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of children and their families. Providing comprehensive healthcare, promoting healthy development and supporting families through their children's medical journeys are some of the most rewarding aspects of this profession.
Five steps to becoming a paediatrician in Australia
Embarking on a career in paediatrics is a rewarding journey that allows you to make a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of children. To become a paediatrician, follow these five steps:
- Gain experience working with children
Paediatricians spend their days interacting with young people. A role that lets you work with kids can be helpful in evaluating your passion for working with children and your dedication to their health and development. Recognise the challenges and rewards that come with being a paediatrician and the commitment required to provide comprehensive care to young patients. -
Complete the relevant education and training
The timeline to become a practising paediatrician typically involves the following steps:
• Complete a medical degree such as a Bachelor of Medicine. If you already hold an undergraduate degree in a related field, you may meet the entry requirements to complete a Doctor of Medicine. Alternatively, you can study a Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine (typically six years of full-time study).• Complete an accredited internship and then register with the Medical Board of Australia as a medical practitioner (one year).
• Undertake training in paediatrics and child health with the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (typically three years of full-time training).
• Prepare for independent practice as a consultant by undertaking advanced training, under supervision, in a specific discipline like general, cardiology, emergency or rehabilitation paediatrics.
- Obtain the necessary certification
To practise independently as a paediatrician, you must be admitted to the Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians following successful education and training. - Apply for paediatric positions
Once you have completed your education and training and obtained the necessary certification, you can start exploring job opportunities. Join professional networks, engage in continuing professional development activities and seek mentorship from experienced paediatricians to further enhance your skills and knowledge. - Specialise in a field of paediatrics
Upon completing all education and training, paediatricians may choose to pursue further specialisation in a specific area of paediatrics such as neonatology, paediatric cardiology, paediatric oncology, paediatric neurology, paediatric infectious diseases or paediatric gastroenterology.
A career in paediatrics
Paediatrics is a fulfilling career that offers immense personal and professional growth opportunities. The journey to becoming a successful paediatrician requires dedication, resilience and a genuine passion for improving the health and wellbeing of children.
By considering your career aspirations, pursuing a rigorous education, acquiring practical experience and actively seeking employment opportunities, you can make a lasting difference to the lives of young patients and enhance their growth and development.
Embrace the challenges, nurture your passion and never stop pursuing knowledge and excellence in the field. Dedicate yourself to providing compassionate and evidence-based care, and you will have the opportunity to shape the future of healthcare for Australian children and their families.