Interests: Helping, Organizing, Thinking
Career Cluster: Healthcare and Medicine
Education Level: Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree
Internal medicine physicians (internists) diagnose and offer non-surgical treatment for a wide range of diseases and injuries of internal organ systems.
What is a typical day as an Advocacy Specialist?
– Seeing patients in outpatient clinics or hospitalized patients
– Taking medical histories, performing physical exams
-Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests
-Developing treatment plans and monitoring progress
– Coordinating with specialists and other healthcare providers
– Educating patients about disease prevention and management
– Handling emergencies or acute medical issues as needed
What else might they be expected to do?
– Engage in research or clinical trials
– Participate in teaching medical students/residents
– Carry out administrative roles or multidisciplinary committees
What type of training is needed for this career path?
– Achieve a strong performance in sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) and Mathematics at the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) level.
– Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery + 1-year internship for licensing
– Masters in Medicine (MMed) in Internal Medicine for 3+ years with additional 2 years supervised practice for Specialist recognition by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council.
What kind of personality is needed to excel in this career path?
– Analytical and detail-oriented
– Compassionate and patient-centered
– Good communication and interpersonal skills
– Resilient and able to handle pressure
– Lifelong learner
What challenges can I expect to face if I pursue this career path?
– Managing complex and chronic diseases
– Emotional stress from patient outcomes
– Long working hours, especially in hospitals
– Keeping up with rapid medical advancements
– Resource limitations, especially in Kenya/Africa
Are there any innate skills or aptitudes required?
a Kenyan citizen?
– Strong memory and reasoning
– Empathy and emotional intelligence
– Ability to work long, demanding hours
– Decision-making under pressure
– Technical skills for diagnostic tools and procedures
What are the job prospects for this path in Kenya and Africa? What about International prospects ?
– Kenya and Africa: Growing demand for internists due to rising chronic diseases; opportunities in hospitals, clinics, NGOs, and research
– International: High demand globally, especially with additional certification; chances in developed countries with further licensing
What should I focus on if I choose to pursue this career?
– Strong foundation in clinical medicine
– Communication and patient management skills
– Keep updated with medical research and guidelines
– Consider subspecializing for more career options
– Develop resilience and time management skills
Which other careers or job roles can I progress to?
– Sub-Specialties (see list etc.)
– Hospitalist or clinical leadership roles
– Academic medicine and research
– Public health and policy
– Consultancy in healthcare organizations