Nephrology comes under Internal Medicine and deals with the conditions and diseases of kidney. Nephrologists are the doctors who diagnose the problems related to kidneys and give treatment to avoid those problems. They are able to give treatment to various conditions such as high blood pressure, kidney diseases, electrolyte disorders and kidney stones. They perform various tests like blood tests, urine tests and biopsies to find out the disease affected on the kidney. They will give treatment according to the results obtained from these tests. Their treatment includes regulation of electrolyte and blood pressure, medication and dialysis. They can work in both private and government hospitals.

Qualifying Exam

The basic qualification needed to become a Nephrologist is a MBBS degree obtained from an Institute recognized by Medical Council of India. After completing MBBS, they should obtain MD degree in General Medicine. Then they should obtain DM degree in Nephrology or DNB in Nephrology. After obtaining this degree, they can practice as a Nephrologist in any Organization. Nephrologists should take license to practice in any Institution.

Who are eligible to apply?

The educational qualification needed for the candidates to obtain MBBS degree is plus two or equivalent with subjects Physics, Chemistry and Biology. There are several institutions in India offering MBBS course. Candidates who wish to get admission in these institutions should qualify the entrance test conducted by them. After obtaining MBBS degree, candidate should qualify the entrance test conducted by the Institution which offers MD degree in General Medicine. Thus they can get admission to the three year MD course in General Medicine in the concerned Institutions. Candidates who have completed their MD in General Medicine can apply for DM in Nephrology or DNB in Nephrology at any Institution. They have to qualify the entrance test conducted by the concerned institution.

Key elements in the process

• Pass plus two or its equivalent with Physics, Chemistry and Biology
• Obtain MBBS degree
• Obtain DM in Nephrology or DNB in Nephrology
• Apply for the job

Skills required for a Nephrologist

Nephrologists should possess the skill of critical thinking to excel in their career. They should be well- experienced in this field. They should continuously read about the latest technological advancements emerging in this field. They should be also aware about the latest treatments available in this field.  They should possess good interpersonal skills to interact with their patients and subordinates.