How does one become a hospitalist?

To become a hospitalist, one must follow a specific educational and professional pathway. This journey typically begins with obtaining a bachelor's degree, followed by attending medical school to earn a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. After medical school, aspiring hospitalists must complete a residency program in internal medicine or a related field, which usually lasts three years. Upon finishing residency, they may choose to pursue board certification in internal medicine, although it is not always mandatory. In summary, the path to becoming a hospitalist involves several key steps: earning a bachelor's degree, completing medical school, finishing a residency program, and potentially obtaining board certification. Each of these stages is crucial for developing the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this specialized area of medicine.