How many years to become a pulmonologist

Pulmonologists are licensed medical doctors who specialize in treating lung disorders. Professionals conduct physical examinations and interpret diagnostic imaging results to pinpoint specific problems. A person who wants to become a pulmonologist usually needs to complete four years of medical school and up to five years in practical training to fully prepare for the job. A doctor who finishes training and passes all requisite licensing examinations can become a pulmonologist at a general hospital, specialty clinic, or a private practice.

Table of Contents Show

• What does a pulmonologist do?
• Average salary
• Pulmonologist requirements
• Certifications
• Pulmonologist work environment
• How to become a pulmonologist
• 1. Follow the correct educational path.
• 2. Earn your certification.
• 3. Build your resume.
• Pulmonologist job description example
• Related careers
• Do pulmonologists do surgery?
• What is a lung doctor called?
• How many years does it take to become a pulmonologist in India?
• Is being a pulmonologist stressful?

Before an individual can apply for medical school, he or she typically needs to obtain a four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited university. Most hopeful pulmonologists major in biology, though a degree in another science or health-related field can prepare a student for advanced medical studies as well. An undergraduate can take courses in physiology, anatomy, and molecular biology to become familiar with how the lungs work.

Med school graduates must complete a residency training program.

Most countries require prospective medical school students to pass admissions tests in their third or fourth year of college. In addition to taking the test, a student usually needs to prepare transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal essays to send to different medical schools. A person who wants to become a pulmonologist can investigate tuition rates and financial aid opportunities by researching schools on the Internet and inquiring with admissions advisers.

Residency is an important part of training for physicians that lasts from three to seven years.

A medical student usually spends the first half of a program attending classroom lectures and participating in laboratory work. A standard curriculum includes advanced courses in disease pathology, pharmacology, biochemistry, and several other topics related to human health. The second half of medical school is typically dedicated to a rotating internship at a local hospital and ongoing lab research. A student has the opportunity to observe doctors in many different specialties, including pulmonology, to make sure that he or she is suited for the profession.

A medical student who wants to become a pulmonologist will participate in lab work.

After earning a doctor of medicine degree, a graduate who wants to become a pulmonologist can apply for internal medicine residency positions. A resident works directly with patients under the supervision of experienced doctors while continuing to attend classes and conduct research. During a residency, a new doctor gains valuable instruction and firsthand experience that will help him or her become a pulmonologist.

Pulmonologists use imaging scans to diagnose and treat disorders of the lungs and respiratory system.

A successful resident usually needs to enter a two-year fellowship dedicated specifically to pulmonology to complete his or her training. Fellowship programs take place in specialty divisions of hospitals, where new doctors have the opportunity to work with knowledgeable pulmonologists. After completing a fellowship, an individual can take a licensing exam to earn board certification and the right to practice independently.

1. Career paths
2. Learn About Being a Pulmonologist

By Indeed Editorial Team

Published December 10, 2019

The Indeed Editorial Team comprises a diverse and talented team of writers, researchers and subject matter experts equipped with Indeed's data and insights to deliver useful tips to help guide your career journey.

What does a pulmonologist do?

A pulmonologist is a doctor who focuses on the lungs and respiratory tract. A pulmonologist trains in internal medicine, concentrating on the cardiopulmonary system and the lungs. A pulmonologist treats the lungs, blood vessels, heart and other related organs that aid in breathing. Pulmonologists may treat illnesses and diseases of the chest and lung, such as asthma, pneumonia, emphysema, tuberculosis and chest infections. They may also suggest lifestyle changes and coping strategies to minimize dependence on medication. Responsibilities of a pulmonologist include:

• Meeting with patients to discuss symptoms

• Examining patients by using tools such as stethoscopes, X-rays and other diagnostic items

• Diagnosing illnesses and recommending treatment

• Following up with patients during and after treatment

Average salary

Pulmonologists are typically full-time salaried employees. Salaries may vary depending on the pulmonologist’s experience. Other factors that could affect salary are the size, type and geographical location of the healthcare facility in which they work. For the most up-to-date salary information from Indeed, click on the salary link.

• Common salary in the U.S.: $292,292 per year

• Some salaries range from $19,000 to $490,000 per year.

Pulmonologist requirements

Pulmonologists need extensive education and training to succeed in their roles. They also need a combination of hard and soft skills and certifications to practice.

Education

Pulmonologists begin education with a bachelor’s degree in pre-medicine, biology or related field. Coursework in a pre-medicine program will include classes such as anatomy, physiology, psychology and biology. After earning a bachelor’s degree, students will enter a four-year medical school program. During the last two years, the doctor-in-training will complete rotations in clinics or hospitals under the guidance of experienced staff. Students will shadow doctors and learn about different specialties within medicine, such as pediatrics, surgery, psychiatry and pulmonology. 

After graduating from medical school, students will then undertake a three-year residency program in which they begin practicing medicine under supervision. Residencies allow students to gain practical knowledge and experience. After completing a residency, some doctors begin practicing general internal medicine. Pulmonologists must undergo a three-year fellowship program to specialize in the respiratory tract. If a pulmonologist wishes to further specialize in a particular age group, illness or part of the respiratory tract, they will need to undergo another three-year fellowship.

Training

Most training that a pulmonologist receives is during their education. In their residency and fellowship, a pulmonologist will learn how to diagnose and treat illnesses, the different medications and methods they can use in treatment and how to use the various equipment and tools associated with the occupation. 

During schooling, pulmonologists will also learn how to interact with patients, complete files and sterilization procedures. They will also learn about different software or computer programs that many healthcare facilities use. 

Pulmonologists may receive some on-the-job training once they begin a position. During training, they may learn more about the different processes the facility uses. They will also receive instruction on how to perform various necessary administrative tasks. 

Certifications

All doctors must earn their licenses to practice by passing either the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX). Passing the USMLE will designate an individual as a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.), while the COMLEX offers the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) designation. Both can become pulmonologists.

Though it is not a requirement, most doctors earn a certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine. To earn this certification, doctors must have their license and pass an exam. Pulmonologists can also earn board certification in pulmonary medicine, which shows their dedication to the field. They can earn this specialized certification once they complete a pulmonology fellowship.

A pulmonologist will need to renew their pulmonary certification every two years to stay up-to-date with technological and medical changes. To keep an active license to practice medicine, doctors must retake their boards every 10 years.

Skills

Regardless of the location a pulmonologist works, they will need the following skills: 

Communication

This skill allows a pulmonologist to effectively work with doctors, nurses and other medical professionals to ensure that patients receive the best care. As pulmonologists work directly with patients, they must be able to actively listen to them to gather information about symptoms to make correct diagnoses. Pulmonologists will also need to use non-technical terms when communicating with patients.

Research

Pulmonologists will need to stay well informed about the latest treatments and technology in medicine. They will need to develop treatment plans using the most recent research and methods. Pulmonologists may attend seminars and conferences to stay informed and they should also read medical journals extensively to remain current. 

Analysis

Pulmonologists will need to conduct tests and use that data to diagnose patients. As they may need to work with large amounts of varying data, they need to form logical conclusions from the available information. 

Technological skills

A pulmonologist will perform tests and exams to determine a lung-related diagnosis. A pulmonologist may treat pneumonia, lung cancer, sleep apnea, cystic fibrosis and tuberculosis. 

Pulmonologist work environment

Pulmonologists often work in hospitals in the intensive care unit. However, some pulmonologists work in private practice with other medical professionals. 

A pulmonologist does not have a set schedule, as their workday depends on the condition of their patients. A pulmonologist may need to consult at irregular hours or work over 60 hours per week to manage multiple cases. 

Pulmonologists can expect to stand to sit for extended periods. While performing administrative tasks and examining test results, pulmonologists may spend many hours at a desk. While making rounds to observe patients, pulmonologists may walk and stand for at least an hour.

A pulmonologist will likely handle hazardous materials. They work in a clean environment and perform procedures in a sterile environment wearing protective gear such as gloves, close-toed shoes and masks.

How to become a pulmonologist

Here are the steps you can take to become a pulmonologist:

1. Follow the correct educational path.

To be a pulmonologist, you will first need to get your bachelor’s degree. Then, you will need to complete a four-year degree at an accredited medical school. From there, you will need to undergo a three- to five-year residency program before completing a fellowship program. Some pulmonologists will undergo two fellowships for their subspecialties, such as pulmonary geriatrics or pulmonary pediatrics.

2. Earn your certification.

You will need to earn licensure to become an M.D. or D.O. Though it is not required, it’s helpful to earn board certifications to demonstrate your dedication to pulmonology. You will also need to renew your certifications to ensure you maintain current knowledge. 

3. Build your resume.

When crafting your resume to be a professional pulmonologist, highlight first your education and then your relevant work experience. Highlight the accomplishments of both the hospital you did your residency at, but also your achievements. If you have certifications or a fellowship that is above and beyond, highlight that.

Pulmonologist job description example

Our medical facility is seeking a full-time pediatric pulmonologist. We offer competitive pay plus overtime, a sign-on bonus, PTO that accrues on day one, a 401(K) savings plan with a dollar-for-dollar match and full benefits. 

The chosen candidate will have a solid background in clinical pulmonology, as well as an interest in clinical research and teaching. The chosen pulmonologist will work closely with the cystic fibrosis research team and will be appointed to a position at Virginia Commonwealth University. The candidate will need experience with clinical trials, as the facility participates in multiple national and translational research trials. 

We are seeking a qualified pediatric pulmonologist to help children live healthy lives. The right person should be board certified, have completed a fellowship in pediatric pulmonology and has at least 10 years of experience in a pediatric field.

Related careers

Do pulmonologists do surgery?

What is a lung doctor called?

How many years does it take to become a pulmonologist in India?

Is being a pulmonologist stressful?