When we think about highest-paying careers, the medical field is often the first one that comes to the mind. As one of the most sought after and well-regarded professions in India, having a career in the medical field has become increasingly appealing to students. The healthcare industry offers an array of high-paying options worth exploring.
Surgeons top the list of the highest paying jobs in the medical field worldwide. These professionals are highly skilled and trained to perform complex medical procedures that treat injury, diseases and deformities. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a surgeon, you can also specialise in areas such neurosurgery, cardiothoracic surgery, and orthopaedic surgery. Surgeons are paid well due to the complexity of their job and the level of responsibility they carry.
Educational qualification:
MBBS
Years of Study: 10–15 years, depending on specialization
Annual Salary Range: Rs 2 Lakhs - 40 Lakhs for 1 -12 years of working experience.
Along with surgeons, an anesthesiologist also serves a critical role in the healthcare industry. They are a crucial part of the surgical procedures by administrating anesthesia, monitoring important signs and ensuring patients are safe during and after surgery. The expertise of an anesthesiologist is highly valued in a medical setup which justifies the remunerative salary range they receive.
Educational qualification:
MBBS
Years of Study: Around 9–11 years
Annual Salary Range: Rs 1 Lakh - 25 Lakhs for 0-10 years of working experience.
During a hospital visit often our first point of contact are general physicians. They are responsible for diagnosing and treating various health conditions of patients. Physicians can specialise in different areas like cardiology, endocrinology, or nephrology. This is a highly paid profession due to the broad range of knowledge that physicians possess along with their ability to handle diverse medical issues and long working hours.
Educational qualification:
MD in General Medicine
Years of Study: 8–10 years
Annual Salary Range: Rs 1.2 Lakh - 25 Lakhs for 1- 15 years of experience in the medical field.
Who is the healthcare professional you rely on for your skin, hair and nail related concerns, a dermatologist? This is a widely acknowledged profession due to the high demand in both medical and cosmetic sectors. Many dermatologists are also running their own clinics, offering specialised treatments. Due to the increased awareness of skincare among public dermatology has become a lucrative industry today.
Educational qualification:
MBBS
MD in Dermatology
Years of Study: 8–10 years
Annual Salary Range: Rs 4.1 Lakhs - 24 Lakhs for 0-10 years of experience in the medical field.
Professionals who work with X-Rays, MRIs and CT scans to diagnose medical conditions are called radiologists. They are trained to interpret medical images using techniques to actively diagnose medical conditions and provide a clear direction for treatments.
Educational qualification:
MBBS
MD in Radiology
Years of Study: 9–11 years
Annual Salary Range: Rs 2.5 Lakhs - 50 Lakhs for 0-11 years of experience.
A gynaecologist/obstetrician plays an integral role in women’s health by focusing on the reproductive system and related medical conditions. While gynaecology primarily addresses female reproductive health, obstetrics deals with pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum period. This profession involves managing life and death situations and working unpredictable hours which leads to higher earning potential and immense relevance in the medical field.
Educational qualification:
MBBS
MD/MS in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Years of Study: 9–11 years
Annual Salary Range:
Gynecologist: Rs 2.5 Lakhs - 36 Lakhs for 1 to 13 years of experience
Obstetrician Consultant: Rs 10.8 Lakhs to 29.3 Lakhs for 4 to 11 years of experience.
If you are an ambitious aspirant about entering the medical field it is crucial to start preparing early. Research various specialisations and understand where you want to invest your next few important years and efforts. It is important to note that while financial gain is an indispensable aspect, job satisfaction, work-life balance and passion also equally matters. So, focus on your goals and interests as you shape your future career in the field of medicine.
Surgeon, Anesthesiologist, Radiologist, Gynecologist/Obstetrician, Physician (General/Internal Medicine), and Dermatologist are some of the highest paying jobs in the medical field.
Physician Assistant, Hospital Administrator, Biomedical Engineer, and Healthcare Data Analyst are some of the career options that candidates can pursue without appearing for the NEET exam.
Some 2-year degree options like Diploma in Radiology, Diploma in Medical Lab Technology (DMLT), and Diploma in Operation Theatre Technology are great options for candidates seeking early employment in the medical field without pursuing the traditional MBBS degree.
Some of the easier and less academically demanding roles in the medical industry include Phlebotomist, Medical Transcriptionist, Medical Coding Specialist, and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
Healthcare jobs that offer lucrative salary ranges without advanced educational qualifications are listed below.
Registered Nurse (RN)
Physician Assistant (B.Sc. in Physician Assistant)
Healthcare Administrator
Occupational Therapist.