Nursing & Midwifery

Gastroenterologist

SOC 29-1216.00 · ESCO 2212 · OSCA 264334

Role snapshot

Overview

Investigates and treats disorders of the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. Performs advanced diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures, interprets complex imaging and pathology results, and manages chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and liver diseases. Provides comprehensive patient care, from diagnosis to long-term management and preventative strategies.

Significantly improves patients' quality of life by diagnosing and treating complex digestive and liver conditions, preventing serious complications, and offering long-term management strategies.

On the job

Perform diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures such as colonoscopy, gastroscopy, and ERCP.
Diagnose and manage chronic conditions including Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, and hepatitis.
Interpret laboratory results, imaging studies (e.g., CT, MRI), and pathology reports to formulate treatment plans.
Consult with patients, explain diagnoses, discuss treatment options, and provide ongoing medical care.
Collaborate with other specialists, including surgeons, oncologists, and dietitians, for multidisciplinary patient management.

Tools & technology

Endoscopes (gastroscopes, colonoscopes)Biopsy forcepsElectrosurgical unitsElectronic Health Records (EHR) systemsMedical imaging software

Average salary

$350K

MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD

$250K Bottom 10%

$500K Top 10%

Job outlook

Growing

Job growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.

Education & training

Extensive education including medical school, residency in Internal Medicine, and a fellowship in Gastroenterology.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Gastroenterologist

Chief of Gastroenterology

Academic Gastroenterologist

CURRENT ROLE

Gastroenterologist

Nursing & Midwifery

ADJACENT MOVES

Interventional Endoscopist

Medical Student

Internal Medicine Resident

Gastroenterology Fellow

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

investigative · ISR

Individuals who enjoy scientific investigation, direct patient care, and applying practical medical skills to diagnose and treat complex conditions are well-suited for this role.

Personality characteristics

Inquisitive

Possesses a strong curiosity to understand complex biological processes and disease mechanisms.

Methodical

Follows rigorous diagnostic protocols and treatment guidelines, ensuring thorough and precise patient care.

Empathetic

Connects with patients, understands their concerns, and communicates sensitive information with compassion.

Composed

Maintains calm and objective judgment during high-pressure situations or medical emergencies.

Decisive

Makes critical diagnostic and treatment decisions efficiently, often under time constraints.

Best for

Physicians who thrive on intellectual challenge and performing precise, technical procedures.
Individuals dedicated to long-term patient relationships and improving digestive health.
Those who prefer a blend of clinical practice, diagnostic work, and potential research involvement.

Watch out for

Demanding schedule often includes on-call duties and occasional weekend work.
Requires emotional resilience to manage challenging patient outcomes and chronic illnesses.