The neurological system is the “brains” behind the magnificent inner-workings of the human body. Everything that happens within is somehow affected by this powerhouse at the most cellular levels. If you find this concept fascinating, and medicine is your calling, becoming a neurologist is an excellent way to put your own brain to work to make a tremendous difference in the world. If you’re new to the field and haven’t decided where to settle, or a seasoned neurologist easing into retirement, a locum tenens position may the perfect solution to fit your needs.
Neurologists focus on the structure and function of the brain and nervous system, diagnosing and treating an extensive array of associated disorders, while practicing in a variety of settings. Most function within office-based practices, some work within hospital outpatient clinics, and others may be strictly academic and/or research-oriented. Those who work in private practice still spend a great deal of time providing consultative services for patients in the hospital.
A neurologist’s duties vary a great deal between practice settings and patient populations. In addition to activities related to patient care, those who own private practices may be involved in business operations as well. For our purposes, we’ll focus on the typical duties of a clinical neurologist, which include, but certainly are not limited to:
Of course, neurologists should love science, have a passion for medicine, and enjoy working with people. As specialists, they collaborate extensively with other healthcare providers, making strong communication skills very important. Since patients with neurological disorders often deal with some type of deficit in cognition, motor skills, and/or communication, other essential qualities include patience, compassion and tolerance. As with any physician-oriented career, neurologists must also be disciplined, able to tolerate long hours, and excellent multi-taskers.
There are pros and cons with this career, as with any other. Every setting will vary, but this general list describes just a few.
Neurologists have extensive educational requirements. The website of the American Medical Association outlines what’s needed to become a physician: A 4-year science-based BS or BA degree, four years of undergraduate medical education at an accredited U.S. medical school, then a residency program lasting 3-5 years, depending upon specialty chosen. After residency completion, neurologists are eligible to sit for the board examination which certifies them as specialists in this field. Maintenance of Certification (MOC) is now required according to the guidelines provided by the American Board of Medical Specialties.
According to figures from payscale.com, neurologist salaries vary a great deal, with a range of $79,422 – $310,684, and a median pay of $187,548. Factors influencing pay include years of experience, practice setting, and geographical locations. New York City is listed as the highest paying city in the country, topping out at $646,164, while Florida is the highest paying state overall – at $375,000. The job outlook for this field is quite promising, as the need for physicians is expected to continue to grow due to the aging of the Baby Boomer population and increased rates of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, an increased emphasis on research and treatment of neurological disorders is occurring through funding such as the recently announced Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies (BRAIN) Initiative.
According to figures from payscale.com, neurologist salaries vary a great deal, with a range of $79,422 – $310,684, and a median pay of $187,548. Factors influencing pay include years of experience, practice setting, and geographical locations. New York City is listed as the highest paying city in the country, topping out at $646,164, while Florida is the highest paying state overall – at $375,000. The job outlook for this field is quite promising, as the need for physicians is expected to continue to grow due to the aging of the Baby Boomer population and increased rates of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, an increased emphasis on research and treatment of neurological disorders is occurring through funding such as the recently announced Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies (BRAIN) Initiative.
Neurology Locum Tenens positions are a great option for practicing medicine, allowing increased freedom and decreased responsibility than that associated with a private practice or permanent employer. Contract terms vary according to position, setting, and location.
Ethan Ruben, MD, FAA took such a position in pediatrics, and said it was a perfect solution for his particular situation. Having moved his family to rural Alabama after closing an urban practice, he wasn’t ready to jump into all that would be needed to build a new endeavor right away. “I was freed of the expense and responsibility of managing a private office while receiving an adequate income without having to see a very large number of children each day.”
To find out more about the field of neurology, there are two professional organizations for this specialty that can be of assistance – the American Neurological Association, and the American Academy of Neurology, which also offers resources specifically for neurology residents and fellows.
If you have a passion for science and medicine, love to work with people, and are fascinated by all things neurological, then becoming a neurologist may be the perfect career for you. And if flexibility tops your list of priorities, then a neurology locum tenens position may be the solution you’ve been seeking.
By Sue Montgomery, RN, BSN
Sue Montgomery, RN, BSN is a freelance healthcare writer and professional copywriter. In her 30 years as a registered nurse, Sue has held roles from staff nurse to administrator in critical care, hospice and the health insurance industry. Learn more about Sue on Google+
