What is Cardiology?
Cardiology is the branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the heart, arteries, veins, and blood vessels that comprise the cardiovascular system.
What do Cardiologists do?
Cardiologists work in clinics and hospitals where they work directly with patients, assessing and treating them. Cardiologists typically work with and treat patients who have diseases or conditions such as hypertension, pulmonary embolisms, congenital heart disease, arrhythmias, and vascular disease. Cardiologist also participate in surgeries such as heart transplants, and may provide emergency care for patients that have suffered a heart attack.
Training/Education
Cardiology is a very specialized field and requires a great deal of formal education. However, before you can begin specialized education in cardiology, you must first obtain an undergraduate degree as well as complete post-graduate medical training from an accredited medical school. At most colleges and universities you can do your undergraduate work in pre-med, which will better prepare you for the more specialized and advanced post-graduate study. Courses in each of these programs will include study of biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, molecular biology, pharmacology, and biostatistics to name a few.
Careers in Cardiology
In order to practice as a cardiologist, you must first pass a certifying exam. Careers in cardiology are found in hospitals and clinics working directly with patients, as well as with drug companies, research labs, and government agencies where you may do clinical research and publish articles. Careers in cardiology may also include teaching at medical schools or serving as a consultant in a variety of settings. Other careers related to cardiology include some that require less schooling such as pharmaceutical sales, and medical technicians.
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