How Do You Become A Nephrologist?
A nephrologist is an internal medicine physician who treats kidney diseases, performs kidney transplants and performs dialysis therapy. These individuals also are trained to treat hypertension, diabetes and acute renal disease. Steps to becoming a nephrologist include: completion of medical school, practice in internal medicine, residency in nephrology and board certification. In addition, you must pass a national examination to practice medicine. Training to become a nephrologist usually takes 10 years. Pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). This exam will assess you on your knowledge of science concepts and is a requirement for entrance into medical school. You can register to take the MCAT through the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). Enroll in an accredited medical school. You will need to provide your MCAT scores and transcripts from your bachelor’s degree program. Medical school will provide you with an educational foundation in biochemistry, microbiology