Maternal fetal medicine specialists are also referred to as high risk obstetricians or perinatologists. These are medical professionals who specialize in dealing with complicated pregnancies. Although there are many reasons why a pregnant woman may be referred to a high risk obstetrician, the main conditions are grouped into four categories which include previous high-risk pregnancy, poor mother health (pregnancy induced condition or a pre-existing condition), high risk fetus health (e.g. trisomy) or a combination of any of the above conditions. Maternal fetal medicine jobs require trainees to undergo rigorous training which is then followed by certification and licensure.
Training for Maternal Fetal Medicine Jobs
If you have a dream to pursue this line of career, you should start making preparations as early as high school. Good grades in mathematics and sciences will be very crucial as you prepare for this career. After passing high school, you will be accepted in a college or a university. At this level, you should pursue a related science course such as premed or its equivalent. The courses you take at this level will lead you to medical school. Before you are accepted in any medical school, you will be required to pass Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).
Attaining a good score on the MCAT will increase your chances of being accepted to a medical school. It is important for you to note that the competition to get into medical schools is very stiff and therefore you should give your best while taking the MCAT. At medical school, you should take a program in obstetrics and gynecology. The program will run for four or five years depending on the program. Upon completion of the program, you will be awarded a Medical degree (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.) degree. The Medical degree is usually followed by residency in either gynecology or obstetrics.
Certification for Maternal Fetal Medicine Jobs
After completing the degree and residency programs, you should apply for certification in your state. Remember that you will only be certified after passing an oral and written examination which is administered by ABOG (American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology). After certification, you should complete a three years' fellowship program in maternal fetal medicine after which you will seek the ABOG certification in the sub-specialty maternal fetal medicine.
Job Description of a Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist
A maternal fetal medicine specialist will diagnose and treat high-risk pregnancies to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus. He or she will also determine the most appropriate method for child delivery.
With the ever-increasing population, the likelihood that the demand for maternal fatal medicine specialists will increase is great. The title and salary of these specialists will be determined by the academic qualifications as well as by number of years of experience. Maternal fetal medicine jobs are found in hospitals, private clinics, research institutions, and so on. Depending on the region and position of the specialist, the salaries will vary. However, the median salary is around $373,129. Once you have become a perinatologist, it is always advisable to ensure that you keep your licensure and certification up to date.