Another important function of an M.D. is to serve on various panels with colleagues and other members of the medical profession and on committees such as the medical malpractice panel of the state medical society or on hospital committees, such as patient care or cost containment. A large part of your time must be spent in continuing education to maintain your license as an MD as well as certification in your area of specialization. The advantages of a career in medicine can include the satisfaction in the development of a trusting and lasting relationship with a patient. To become a medical doctor, you need a college education and graduation from a school of medicine. Medical school generally takes an additional four years beyond college.
Specialization takes further training.
In ophthalmology, for example, residency takes three additional years of training and, until recently, a year of internship prior to the residency. Other specialties, such as surgery, can require six years or more. All doctors must be licensed by their respective state boards of medical examiners. Nevertheless, in most states renewal of licenses is a mere formality. New Mexico and several other states, however, make renewal of the license to practice medicine contingent upon completion of a prescribed amount of accredited postgraduate study in medicine.