In general, the surgical specialties require longer residencies. Currently there are 24 specialties that offer residency programs. The Association of American Medical Colleges is responsible for approving and accrediting these residency programs. The American Medical Association, maintains a database of all of the residency programs in the United States. Medical students may consult this database when they begin applying for residency programs.
Emergency medicine is one of the specialties in which a doctor can enter a residency program.
The resident works in conjunction with an attending physician, so if you are seen by a resident you will also be evaluated by another physician. This team works together to determine the best treatment plan. There are a variety of health care providers practicing in both doctors offices and emergency rooms. Physician assistants and nurse practitioners are a common health care team component. Under a physician's supervision, physician assistants and nurse practitioners perform many of the tasks a physician performs.