Internal Medicine

Anshika Jain | Consultant | CMI Hospital

What is Internal Medicine?

There are many nuances of a Career in Internal Medicine. Almost everyone seems to be talking about How to start a Career in Internal Medicine, while one should first develop an understanding of What is a Career in Internal Medicine. The internet is a great source of information on Internal Medicine, but it is second best to learning about the same from a real professional.

Consultant Anshika Jain is an experienced professional with 5 years in Internal Medicine. According to Consultant Anshika Jain, Internal Medicine is:

Internal medicine or general internal medicine is the medical specialty dealing with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of internal diseases. Physicians specializing in internal medicine are called internists, or physicians in Commonwealth nations.

How Consultant Anshika Jain got into Internal Medicine?

I did MBBS from Institute of Medicine, Nepal and MD (Medicine) from Himalayan Institute Dehradun. After that I started working as a Consultant at CMI Hospital.

Consultant Anshika Jain's Talk on Internal Medicine

The Journey into Internal Medicine: Insights from Dr. Anushika Jain Internal medicine is a vital field in healthcare that encompasses the breadth of adult diseases and serves as a bridge between various specialties. As someone deeply embedded in this discipline, Dr. Anushika Jain shares her insights, experiences, and the realities of being an internal medicine physician. Engaging in this career not only requires extensive knowledge and skills but also embodies a strong commitment to patient care and constant learning. What Is Internal Medicine? Understanding Internal Medicine Internal medicine is a comprehensive branch of medical practice focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases. It covers a multitude of conditions affecting various internal systems of the body and requires physicians to think critically about their diagnosis. As Dr. Jain points out, physicians in this field are often referred to as internists or intensivists. An example she gives is managing diabetes, which requires a thorough understanding of the condition and its accompanying challenges. Education Science with Biology The journey into internal medicine starts with solid foundational knowledge in science, particularly biology. As Dr. Jain highlights, students aspiring to enter the field should focus on subjects like physics, chemistry, and biology during their schooling. This background is crucial as it provides the framework necessary to understand complex medical concepts later in their education, ultimately facilitating a smooth transition into medical college. Anatomy Anatomy, the study of the human body, is fundamental for anyone in the medical profession. Dr. Jain explains that understanding anatomy is critical because it informs physicians about the location and function of organs, tissues, and systems within the body. For instance, when addressing a condition like diabetes, it becomes crucial to understand the pancreas's anatomy and functionality. A strong grasp of anatomy allows internists to assess their patients more accurately and devise effective treatment plans. Physiology The study of physiology complements anatomy by focusing on how the body functions. Dr. Jain emphasizes that good internal medicine practice depends on a physician's ability to comprehend physiological processes to accurately diagnose and treat conditions. For example, when a patient presents with symptoms, understanding the physiological reasons behind those symptoms can guide effective interventions. The interplay between anatomy and physiology is vital for accurate clinical reasoning. Pharmacology Pharmacology is another key area of education that every internist must master. It studies how drugs interact with the body and how they can be used to treat diseases. Dr. Jain stresses that a solid understanding of pharmacology is necessary to identify the correct medications based on a patient’s physiological response. For instance, when treating a patient with hypertension, knowledge of both pharmacology and physiology enables the doctor to prescribe the most suitable antihypertensive medication that aligns with the patient's overall health condition. Radiology Understanding radiology is essential for internists since many diagnoses rely on imaging techniques. Dr. Jain points out that procedures like chest X-rays and CT scans provide critical insights into a patient's condition, guiding treatment decisions. For instance, if a patient presents with unexplained chest pain, a thorough understanding of radiological techniques can assist in determining whether the pain is cardiac, pulmonary, or even gastrointestinal-related. Skills Availability & Behaviour In the medical field, particularly in internal medicine, availability and behavior play pivotal roles in patient care. Dr. Jain emphasizes the necessity of being available to patients when they need medical help. Establishing a good rapport through positive behavior ensures that patients return to the physician when necessary. This trust is fundamental in medicine, as it fosters a therapeutic relationship that benefits patient outcomes. Patience & Dedication Patience and dedication are essential qualities for any physician, as highlighted by Dr. Jain. Particularly in internal medicine, where patients may have low health literacy, physicians must invest time to explain diagnoses and treatment plans clearly. This patience not only enhances understanding but also encourages adherence to treatment protocols, ultimately improving patient health. Regular Updation Medical knowledge is perpetually evolving, making it essential for internists to engage in continuous education and professional development. Dr. Jain notes that physicians should renew their understanding of the field every two years to stay current on new practices and procedures. This commitment to lifelong learning not only enhances a physician's expertise but also reflects a dedication to providing the best care possible. Diagnostic Skills Effective diagnostic skills are crucial in internal medicine. Dr. Jain illustrates this by explaining that chest pain can stem from multiple origins, including cardiac, pulmonary, or gastrointestinal issues. The ability to differentiate between these possibilities requires sharp diagnostic acumen and critical thinking skills. Internists must exercise these capabilities to rule out serious conditions promptly. Decision Making Skills In the fast-paced environment of medicine, quick and accurate decision-making is vital. Dr. Jain underscores the importance of being able to evaluate situations rapidly, especially when encountering critically ill patients. The ability to quickly assess the seriousness of each condition affects the patient’s outcome, making this skill crucial for any successful internist. Positives Noble Profession Being a physician often commands respect and brings a sense of nobility that few other professions do. Dr. Jain points out that simply stating one’s profession as a doctor can change the dynamics of social interactions, earning immediate respect. This status reflects society’s recognition of the importance of medical professionals in enhancing public health. Respect Alongside nobility, physicians naturally garner respect. As Dr. Jain shares, the reverence for doctors can be palpably felt, which often motivates individuals in the field to strive for excellence in their practice. This respect can help build trust and foster a strong doctor-patient relationship, which is fundamental to successful medical interventions. Societal Impact Dr. Jain emphasizes the profound impact that doctors can have on society. Beyond treating individual patients, internal medicine practitioners can contribute to disease awareness and education, uplifting public health as a whole. For instance, guiding a patient to understand the importance of managing hypertension can prevent more severe health complications and ultimately save lives. Self Satisfaction The fulfillment derived from being able to help others is a significant positive aspect of the medical profession. According to Dr. Jain, the satisfaction that accompanies effectively treating a patient often surpasses personal and professional challenges. For instance, seeing a patient recover from a debilitating condition can provide immense joy to the physician, making all the efforts worthwhile. Challenges 24/7 Availability One of the notable challenges in internal medicine is the need for 24/7 availability. Dr. Jain candidly shares that the demands of internal medicine often negate the traditional 9-to-5 work schedule, as emergencies can arise at any hour. Thus, physicians must be prepared to respond to urgent calls regardless of personal plans or time of day. Personal Sacrifices The demands of internal medicine often require personal sacrifices. As Dr. Jain explains, a physician's priorities change when patients' needs come into play, leading to missed personal events and downtime. The commitment to patient care may restrict access to personal life moments, emphasizing the dedication needed to succeed in this field. Lack of Awareness A major hurdle in practice is the general lack of health literacy among patients. Dr. Jain notes that many patients struggle to understand complex health issues, which can complicate treatment and adherence to medication. This challenge can be discouraging for physicians trying to explain vital medical information to ensure better health outcomes. High Responsibility The weight of responsibility is considerable in internal medicine, where physicians hold their patients’ lives in their hands. Dr. Jain points out that the gravity of this responsibility can be daunting. When patients rely on physicians to guide their treatment plans and manage their conditions, the stakes are high, requiring both skill and composure from the physician. A Day Of Internal Medicine A Typical Day Dr. Jain shares a glimpse into her daily routine as an internal medicine consultant. Her day typically begins with outpatient department (OPD) duties that extend from 10 AM to around 2 or 3 PM. After a break for lunch, she returns to the hospital for evening rounds, which last about 1.5 to 2 hours. Despite the seeming conclusion of her hospital duties by 8:30 PM, she remains on call and often receives numerous patient-related inquiries throughout the night. This demanding schedule serves as a testament to the dedication required of internists, highlighting the responsibilities that come with the role. From diagnosing illnesses to managing chronic conditions, the workload extends beyond typical hours, reinforcing the commitment to patient care that is central to the field of internal medicine. In conclusion, internal medicine is a dynamic and rewarding career that challenges individuals academically, emotionally, and ethically. With a blend of rigorous education, essential skills, and the profound impact on society, it stands as a testament to the noble calling of medicine. Physicians like Dr. Anushika Jain exemplify the dedication, resilience, and compassion that this profession demands, making it a vital component of healthcare.

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How to get into

Internal Medicine?

If you are want to get into Internal Medicine, start by investing in a Career Plan.

The 14 hour process, guided by a LifePage Career Advisor, will help you introspect and check whether your interest in Internal Medicine is merely an infatuation or is it truly something you wish to do for the rest of your life.

Next, your Career Advisor will help you document how you can get into Internal Medicine, what education and skills you need to succeed in Internal Medicine, and what positives and challenges you will face in Internal Medicine.

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Links for this Talk

Consultant Anshika Jain's LifePage:

[LifePage]
https://www.lifepage.in/page/anshikajain

LifePage Career Talk on Internal Medicine

[Career]
https://www.lifepage.in/careers/internal-medicine-1

[Full Talk]
https://lifepage.app.link/20200706-0001

[Trailer]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PiAo2ZX3LN0

(Internal Medicine, Dr Anshika, CMI Hospital, Consultant, General Internal Medicine, Physicians, Internists)

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