Expert: Dr. Kevin D. Kanz - 10/14/2004

Question
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Followup To
Question -
hmmmmmmmmm
i want to know more about cardiologists?
how long does it take ?
what is required?(in canada)
which university should i go to?(ontario, canada)
and other stuff
i dont know if i m asking the question in the right category or not but can u help  me anyway!
Answer -
Dear Julie,
I'm not a cardiologist, but I think I can provide you with some basic information and links.  As you know, cardiology is a branch of the medical profession (specialty) that deals primarily with diseases of the heart and vascular system.  You must first obtain a medical degree (4+ years) in addition to an undergraduate degree heavy in the basic sciences (biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy and physiology).  After completing a medical degree, you can then choose to specialize in cardiology, which generally requires an additional 3-4 years of training (internship, residency, fellowship).  Once this is completed, you will become elegible to sit for the board certification exams, which are required before you can practice.  It's not unusual for a cardiologist to obtain as much as 12+ years of college and clinical training before they ever enter practice.  Try this link for more information: <http://www.cardiologyonline.com/organizations.htm>
I believe there is a specific link to the Canadian Cardiology Association that might be able to answer your specific questions.

Hope this helps.  Good luck!
~Dr.K

so it takes 12+ years to become a cardiologist...that's long

what about family doctors?

Answer
Julie,
General or family medicine usually takes a two year residency here in the US, not sure about Canada...
I would count on 4 years medical school plus 2+ years GP/FM residency (6 year program).  Here is a link to family medicine programs at the Univ. of Western Onterio.
<http://www.familymedicineuwo.ca>
Hope this helps.
~Dr.K