A neurosurgeon is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system including congenital anomalies, trauma, tumors, vascular disorders, infections of the brain or spine, stroke, or degenerative diseases of the spine. The education and training to become a neurosurgeon is rigorous and extensive and includes the completion of:
- Four years of pre-medical education at a college or university
- Four years of medical school resulting in an M.D. or D.O. degree
- One year internship in general surgery
- Five to seven years in a neurosurgery residency program
- Some neurosurgeons complete a fellowship after residency to specialize in a particular area
- Continuing education — annual meetings, conferences, scientific journals, research — to keep up with advances made in the complex field of neurosurgery
How many years does it take to become a neurosurgeon in South Africa?
– Theoretical training: 5 years. – Student internship: 1 year. – Practical work at a hospital: 1 year (also known as the house doctor year).
How many neurosurgeons are in South Africa?
The distribution of these neurosurgeons shows a striking regional disparity: North Africa has 354 neurosurgeons for 119 million inhabitants; that is, one neurosurgeon for 338,000 inhabitants; and South Africa has 65 neurosurgeons for 40 million inhabitants; that is, one neurosurgeon for 620,000 inhabitants.
How much do neurosurgeon earn in South Africa?
An early career Neurosurgeon with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation (includes tips, bonus, and overtime pay) of R726,312 based on 32 salaries. A mid-career Neurosurgeon with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of R775,513 based on 21 salaries.