As the direct result of advances in electronics, computer science, metallurgy, engineering, chemistry, and physics, clinical medicine has grown as fast in this century as the basic medical sciences did in the last. 

Antibiotics were invented by Paul Ehrlich during his effort to conquer syphilis and advanced by Alexander Fleming and Selman Waksman as they developed penicillin and streptomycin. 

Care of the mentally ill shifted from hostility, to caretaking, to treatment, and the professions of psychiatrist, psychologist, and counselor were created. 

Chemotherapy grew out of a World War I study on the toxic effects of mustard gas, and radiography and radiotherapy have stemmed from early research conducted by Madam Curie and her husband. 

Specialization has now become the norm.  Medical practice today requires advanced knowledge in areas like cardiology, gastroenterology, hematology, oncology, genetics, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, neurology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and many, many more.  It has become impossible for any physician to become an expert in every field, and many current clinical practices--like heart surgery--require teams of surgeons, anesthetists, specialized technicians, nurses, counselors, therapists, and aides. 

If you are interested, we would like to help you find out more about medical careers today.