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Neurologist

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AVG. SALARY

$248,440

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EDUCATION

First professional degree

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JOB OUTLOOK

Stable

What They Do

Neurologists Career Video

Insider Info

Neurologists diagnose and treat disorders of the brain, spinal cord and nerves (the central nervous system). They also deal with disorders involving muscles.

These disorders include:

  • Strokes
  • Tumors
  • Muscular dystrophy
  • Headaches and other pains
  • Meningitis
  • Encephalitis
  • Epilepsy
  • Parkinson's disease
  • Alzheimer's disease
  • Multiple sclerosis

There are many subspecialties within neurology. They require additional training. For instance, child neurologists work with children and adolescents. They have special training in genetic and metabolic problems, malformation, retardation and other developmental problems.

Neurologists work in public or private clinics, hospitals, and university teaching facilities. Many are in private practice. Those working in academic settings are required to teach classes as well as offer bedside training and rounds to medical students, residents and others. Research might also be required.

Neurologists do a lot of paperwork. They dictate letters to family physicians and fill out forms for insurance companies.

Many neurologists spend a lot of time in meetings with colleagues.

Keeping up to date is very important. Neurologists attend conferences and read research articles and journals.

Many people confuse neurologists with neurosurgeons. They represent two different medical specializations. Neurologists do not perform surgery.

Dr. Margaret McBride is the director of pediatric neurology at a children's hospital in Ohio. "Neurologists study nerve sections and test peripheral nerves," she says. "We see patients and perform some procedures such as handling pump devices, but what we do is called clinical work, not surgical."

According to Dr. Karen Roos, some people with disabilities might be able to work as neurologists. Roos is the program director of the department of neurology at Indiana University.

"Medicine is very physical. You walk here and there all day long," she says. "A person in a wheelchair might be able to do the work, but a person who walks with a cane or other mobility device could have difficulties getting around."

Just the Facts

Want a quick overview of what this career is about?Check out Just the Facts for simple lists of characteristics.

At a Glance

Treat problems with the central nervous system and the muscles

  • You can work in public or private clinics, hospitals and university teaching facilities
  • You'll have to attend conferences and read journals to keep up to date
  • Be prepared for a lot of training

Contact

  • Email Support

  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900

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