15 Popular Branches of Medicine & Everything About It

Studying medicine brings the joy of ensuring good health and healing for people. If you are looking forward to a medical career, you are at the right place. In this blog we will be deep-diving into the different medical branches of medicine and the duties attached to them. We will also navigate through the training period required for mastery and the earning potential associated with the top 15 branches of medicine. With no further delays, let us start exploring through the different branches of medicine and their meaning.

Top 15 Branches of Medicine

The world of medicine is very lucrative for students who want a stable career, good earnings and a secure future. However, while zeroing down on medicine as your career's future course, you must know the details about the branches in medical field. With this approach, you can better filter the courses and colleges so that the degree can serve you correctly. Below are some of the best branches of medicine in the world for you:

1. Neurosurgeon

Duties: Nervous system, brain and spine

Training Period: 1 year general surgery internship and up to 7 years residency program

Earning: $7,00,000 annually

While discussing which field of medicine a student must choose, neurosurgery falls in the top 10 branches and is one of the most critical yet vital fields. Students choosing neurosurgery are responsible for critical healing and treatment of brain illness of any kind or brain injury. A neurosurgeon has experience and expertise in health conditions related to the brain, spinal cord, nervous system, or spine. It is one of the best MBBS branches. 

2. Orthopaedic Surgery

Duties: Musculoskeletal surgeries

Training Period: 5 years

Earning: $5,00,000 annually

Orthopaedic surgery is one of the best branches of medicine and surgery you can go for, alongside being one of the popular branches of medicine. As an orthopaedic surgeon, you will be responsible for health issues related to the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system includes the spine, extremities and other structures related to the system. Trauma treatment, cancer and congenital issues are among the many areas of study in the various specialities of medicine.

3. Invasive Cardiology

Duties: Heart health and surgery

Training Period: 5 years

Earning: $5,00,000 annually

This is one of the best branches in the medical field. Invasive cardiology is the deep study of heart health and functions. If you are very intrigued by the functioning of the heart and cardiovascular health, then this branch of medicine to study abroad is for you. If you feel reluctant to study invasive cardiology due to the on-job stress you will be facing in the future, you may ditch the invasive and just go for the cardiology aspect. 

Drawn to medicine but unsure about costs? Well, here is our blog on the 15 cheapest countries to study medicine in 2024, covering all you need to know!

4. Radiology

Duties: Diagnosis and treatment (radiation)

Training Period: 5 years essential requirementRadiology is one of the most interesting branches of medical science to study as an aspiring doctor. Each of the many branches requires vital support from radiologists. A radiologist works with nuclear radiation to determine health conditions and suggest treatment by radiation. You will be responsible for various specialities like X-rays, CT scans, MRIs and ultrasounds. It is one of the best branches of medicine as a course. 

5. Gastroenterology

Duties: Digestive Health

Training Period: 3 years of sub-speciality and three years of internal medicine training

Earning: $4,55,000 annually

It is one of the top fields in medicine worldwide. A gastroenterologist diagnoses health conditions related to the digestive system, from the oesophagus to vital organs like the liver, stomach, intestines, liver, biliary tract, and pancreas. Gastroenterologists commonly treat conditions like acid reflux (GERD), stomach and intestinal ulcers, cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases, colon cancer, and rectal problems.

6. Urology

Duties: Urinary tract

Training Period: 5 years

Earning: $4,20,000 annually

Urology is one of the most sought-after branches of medicine due to its increasing popularity. The reason for the spike in the popularity of urology can be credited to the increasing awareness of reproductive and genital health. As a urologist, you will be responsible for the healing and health of the urinary tract and reproductive systems. Urologists treat several organs, including the kidney, bladder, prostate and urethra, alongside the male and female genitals. 

7. Plastic Surgery

Duties: Cosmetic Procedures

Training Period: 2 years

Earning: $4,00,000 annually

This is one of the most gravitating branches of medicine due to the recent trends and accessibility to cosmetic surgeries. It is one of the most exciting branches of medicine that addresses a wide range of concerns, performing cosmetic procedures to enhance appearance and reconstructive surgeries to restore function and form after injury, disease, or congenital disabilities. Their expertise covers the face, skin, breasts, limbs, torso, and external genitalia.

8. Emergency Medicine

Duties: Emergency Care

Training Period: 3 years

Earning: $3,50,000 annually

Emergency medicine is one of the most important branches of medicine responsible for tackling critical situations, from accidents and heart attacks to other urgent cases. This branch of medical science demands quick reflexes, decisive action, and the ability to work in emergency rooms and off-site locations. Resourcefulness and quick thinking are crucial, as you may need to treat patients with limited equipment and medications.

9. Obstetrics-Gynaecology

Duties: Gynaecological care, prenatal care, and delivery

Training Period: 4+ years 

Earning: $401,000 annually

Bridging the gap between obstetrics and gynaecology, OB-GYN offers a holistic approach to women's health. This medical branch provides care throughout a woman's life, supporting them during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. OB-GYNs address concerns related to the female reproductive system, including preventive checkups, diagnosis and treatment of conditions, and menopause management.

Are you confused about the perfect country to study medicine? Explore our blog, ten best countries to study medicine in 2024, to find your ideal fit!

10. Dermatology

Duties: Identify skin conditions and develop personalised treatment plans

Training Period: 4 years 

Earning: $471,000 annually

Dermatology addresses the health of our largest organ, the skin. This medical branch focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the skin, hair, nails, and scalp. Dermatologists deal with common concerns like acne and eczema and more serious conditions like skin cancers. The field also involves subspecialties like paediatric dermatology for children and cosmetic dermatology for aesthetic concerns. With exposure to toxins, dermatology plays a crucial role in promoting early detection of skin conditions.

11. Pathology

Duties: Examine tissues, cells, and bodily fluids to diagnose diseases

Training Period: 4-5 years

Earning: $438,000 annually

Pathology is one of the most popular branches of medicine. It is a foundation of modern medicine, focusing on the diagnosis and understanding of diseases. Pathologists analyse tissues, cells, and bodily fluids to identify abnormalities and develop targeted treatments. This branch of medical science encompasses subspecialties like molecular pathology, forensic pathology, and hematopathology, playing a crucial role in cancer diagnosis, infectious disease management, and precision medicine.

12. General Surgery

Duties: Perform surgical operations to repair injuries and correct physical deformities

Training Period: 5-7 years

Earning: $536,000 annually

General Surgery is a vital branch of medicine that focuses on surgical interventions for a wide range of conditions, from appendicitis to hernias. General surgeons possess expertise in pre-operative, operative, and post-operative care, often working in emergency settings. Subspecialties of this medicine branch include trauma surgery, surgical oncology, and paediatric surgery, making general surgeons indispensable in saving lives and improving quality of life.

13. Genetics and Genomics

Duties: Interpret genetic information to diagnose inherited disorders

Training Period: 4-6 years

Earning: $425,000 annually

Genetics and Genomics is a rapidly evolving branch of medical science that explores the complex relationships between genes, environment, and disease. Medical geneticists analyse genetic data to diagnose inherited conditions, predict disease risk, and develop targeted therapies. This branch of medicine has far-reaching implications for precision medicine, gene therapy, and our understanding of human biology.

14. Paediatrics

Duties: Diagnose and treat medical conditions in infants, children, and adolescents

Training Period: 3-7 years

Earning: $279,000 annually

Pediatrics is dedicated to the health and well-being of children, from birth to adolescence. Paediatricians address a wide range of concerns, including developmental delays, infectious diseases, and chronic conditions like asthma and diabetes. This branch of medicine emphasises preventive care, education, and family-centred care, playing a vital role in shaping the next generation's health.

15. Rheumatology

Duties: Diagnose and treat musculoskeletal disorders, autoimmune diseases, and chronic pain conditions

Training Period: 4-6 years

Earning: $436,000 annually

Rheumatology is one of the most crucial branches of medical science. It mainly focuses on the diagnosis and management of complex conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, such as arthritis, lupus, and fibromyalgia. Rheumatologists employ a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating medications, lifestyle modifications, and alternative therapies to improve quality of life for patients with chronic pain and mobility limitations.

Explore Various Fields of Medicine

Medicine offers a vast and ever-changing landscape for those passionate about health. Let's get into the different fields of medicine that include clinical practice, biomedical research, medications, surgery, and medical devices. Discover how you can contribute to a healthier future:

1. Clinical Practice

This is where doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals directly diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses in patients. Imagine it as the frontline of medicine, putting knowledge into action.

2. Biomedical Research

Scientists in this field use cutting-edge technology to investigate diseases and develop new treatments. They're on a constant quest to prevent and cure illnesses, paving the way for a healthier future.

3. Medications

Medications are a cornerstone of medicine. This field focuses on drugs and their use in treating, curing, and preventing diseases. Doctors and pharmacists work together to ensure safe and effective medication use.

4. Surgery 

When medications aren't enough, surgeons step in. They use specialised tools and techniques to diagnose, treat, and repair various conditions through precise procedures.

5. Medical Devices

From simple thermometers to complex MRI machines, medical devices play a vital role in medicine. They assist healthcare professionals in diagnosing, treating, and monitoring patients' conditions.

We hope this guide answers your question of 'What can I do after MBBS?' Now, you must explore your ambition of becoming a doctor and serving the world with these best fields in medicine. You must start preparing yourself for the different branches of medicine and their duties. Conduct thorough research before pinning any course, college, or country for a worry-free journey towards a brighter future.