Pediatricians

Pediatricians that are in general practice usually work alone or in partnership with other physicians. Their average workweek is 50 to 60 hours, most of which is spent seeing patients in their offices. They also make hospital rounds to visit any of their patients who have been admitted for treatment or to check on newborn patients and their mothers. Pediatricians spend some time on call, taking care of patients who have emergencies. A pediatrician might be called to attend the delivery of a baby, to meet an injured patient in the emergency room, or simply to answer a parent's question about a sick child.

Some pediatricians choose to pursue pediatric subspecialties, such as the treatment of children who have heart disorders, kidney disorders, or cancer. Subspecialization requires a longer residency training than does general practice. A pediatrician practicing a subspecialty typically spends a much greater proportion of his or her time in a hospital or medical center than does a general practice pediatrician. Subspecialization permits pediatricians to be involved in research activities.