Specialists in surgery

Strong job outlook

Overview

Specialists in surgery perform and supervise surgical procedures. Specialists in surgery usually work in hospitals. Residents in training to become specialists in surgery are included in this unit group.

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • General surgeons

  • Treat diseases, injuries, and deformities by invasive, minimally-invasive, or non-invasive surgical methods, such as using instruments, appliances, or by manual manipulation.

  • Obstetricians and gynecologists

  • Provide medical care related to pregnancy or childbirth. Diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases of women, particularly those affecting the reproductive system. May also provide general medical care to women. May perform both medical and gynecological surgery functions.

  • Ophthalmologists

  • Diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and injuries of the eyes and related structures.

  • Urologists

  • Diagnose, treat, and help prevent benign and malignant medical and surgical disorders of the genitourinary system and the renal glands.

  • Other specialists in surgery

  • Assess patients' diseases or disorders to determine appropriate surgical procedures.

  • Perform and supervise surgical procedures to correct physical abnormalities and deficiencies and repair injuries.

  • Act as consultants to other physicians.

Job titles

  • cardiac surgeon
  • cardiothoracic surgeon
  • cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon
  • cardiovascular and thoracic surgery specialist
  • cardiovascular surgeon
  • cosmetic surgeon

Employment prospects

Source: BC Labour Market Outlook 2024 edition

Annual salary

Low

-

Median

$405,190

High

-

Job openings

Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.

Strong job outlook

British Columbia

415

expected job openings (5-year forecast)

Education and training

Employment requirements

  • A bachelor's degree is usually required.

  • Graduation from an approved medical school and specific specialty training are required.

  • Completion of the certifying examinations of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and licensing by the provincial or territorial licensing authority are required.

Additional information

  • Progression to management positions, such as chief of surgery, is possible with experience.

Certification requirements

Mandatory: You need the following certifications to practice as Specialists in surgery in B.C.

  • Registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia - Surgeons
  • Completion of the certifying examinations of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada - Surgeons

Registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia - Surgeons

Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.

To practice as a specialist in surgery in B.C., you must be registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia. Eligibility is achieved through enrolment in the UBC Faculty of Medicine.

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Completion of the certifying examinations of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada - Surgeons

Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.

To practice as a specialist in surgery, you must complete the certifying examinations of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Eligibility is achieved through successful completion of a recognized program and the certifying examinations.

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Work Experience

Work experience required

Post-secondary programs in B.C.

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