Internal Medicine Physician
Internal Medicine Physicians (internists) specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases.
Getting Started
How to Become a Internal Medicine Physician
At 11 years to get started, this is typical for Doctoral Degree-level careers.
Complete Education
Earn your Doctoral Degree (typically 11 years) at an estimated cost of $250k–$375k.
Get Licensed or Certified
Complete any state-required licensing or certification exams for internal medicine physician practice.
Begin Working
Internal Medicine Physician earn a median salary of $263k/yr, with entry-level positions starting somewhat lower.
Education costs from College Scorecard. Training timelines from BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Overview
What Does a Internal Medicine Physician Do?
Internal Medicine Physicians (internists) specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases. They serve as primary care physicians for adults or subspecialize in areas like cardiology, endocrinology, or infectious disease. Internists are experts in managing complex, multi-system diseases and coordinating care for patients with multiple chronic conditions.
On the Job
Compensation
How Much Does a Internal Medicine Physician Make?
At $263k/yr, internal medicine physician earn about the same as the average for Doctoral Degree-level careers ($267k/yr).
$263k/yr
median annual salary
How It Compares
| Career | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Internal Medicine Physician | $263k/yr |
| Home Health Aide | $34k/yr |
| Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) | $39k/yr |
| Physician Assistant | $130k/yr |
| General Surgeon | $355k/yr |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024
Future-Proofing
Internal Medicine Physician Job Outlook (2024–2034)
Employment Growth
The BLS projects 3% growth over the next decade, roughly in line with the 4.8% average for Doctoral Degree-level careers.
10-Year Growth
3%
About as fast as average
Current Employment
55k
jobs nationwide
AI & Automation Risk
Moderate Exposure
Internal Medicine Physician roles have moderate exposure to AI automation — roughly average among Doctoral Degree-level careers. While some administrative tasks may be augmented by AI, core duties still require human expertise. Core responsibilities like state licensing requirements require human presence and judgment that AI cannot replicate.
Why It's Safe
- +Assisting and caring for others
- +Establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships
- +Developing and building teams
- +Performing general physical activities
- +Resolving conflicts and negotiating with others
What Could Be Automated
- −Documenting/recording information
- −Analyzing data or information
- −Making decisions and solving problems
- −Getting information
- −Processing information
Based on Pew Research + O*NET methodology and Bureau of Labor Statistics projections
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Sources
Data Freshness
BLS OEWS: 2024-05 · BLS Projections: 2024-09 · O*NET: 2024-12