A student wants to know.
How can you become whatever it os you want to become?
To become a licensed infectious disease doctor in Texas, you need to: earn a medical degree, complete an internal medicine residency, then further specialize by completing an infectious disease fellowship, and finally pass the necessary board certification exams; all while adhering to the Texas Medical Board licensing requirements to practice medicine in the state.
Key steps:
- Get a bachelor's degree: Obtain a bachelor's degree in a science-related field like biology, chemistry, or pre-med with strong academic performance to prepare for medical school.
- Attend medical school: Gain acceptance into an accredited medical school and complete the necessary coursework to earn an M.D.
- Pass the USMLE exams: Successfully complete the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) to qualify for residency.
- Complete an internal medicine residency: Match into and complete an accredited internal medicine residency program.
- Complete an infectious disease fellowship: After residency, match into an infectious disease fellowship program to gain specialized training in the field.
- Pass the infectious disease board exam: Sit for and pass the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) certification exam in infectious diseases to become board certified.
- Obtain a Texas medical license: Apply for and receive a medical license from the Texas Medical Board by meeting all necessary requirements.
Important considerations:
- Research opportunities: Gaining research experience in infectious diseases during medical school or residency can strengthen your application for a fellowship.
- Clinical rotations: Seek out clinical rotations that focus on infectious diseases to gain practical experience.
- Stay updated: Continuously update your knowledge through continuing medical education (CME) to maintain your license.
