Are you a medical graduate with a passion for women's health? Are you curious about the various career opportunities in the fields of gynaecology and obstetrics? If so, then you've come to the right place! In this article, we will delve into the world of DGO—its full form, course details, and the exciting career opportunities it offers.
DGO stands for Diploma in Gynaecology and Obstetrics. It is a specialised course that focuses on providing comprehensive knowledge and skills in the management of women's reproductive health. This branch of medicine is crucial as it deals with pregnancy, childbirth, fertility issues, and various other conditions related to women's reproductive systems.
What is the full form of DGO?
DGO stands for Diploma in Gynaecology and Obstetrics. It is a specialisation in the medical field that focuses on women's reproductive health, pregnancy, childbirth, and related disorders.
This course is highly significant as it enables physicians to diagnose and treat gynaecological issues, perform surgeries when required, and ensure safe pregnancies. Pursuing a specialisation like DGO opens up numerous career opportunities and allows healthcare professionals to make a positive impact on women's lives.
Eligibility Criteria for the DGO
- You must have completed an MBBS at a recognised medical institution.
- You should have completed a one-year internship.
- Some institutions may require you to have obtained permanent registration with the Medical Council of India or any state medical council.
Entrance Exams for the DGO
To secure admission into renowned institutions offering DGO courses, you need to appear for entrance exams like NEET PG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Post-Graduate) or INI CET (Institute of National Importance Combined Entrance Test).
- These exams assess your knowledge in subjects like Obstetrics, Gynaecology, and related topics.
- NEET PG consists of 300 multiple-choice questions that need to be answered within three hours. Each correct answer carries four marks, while one mark is deducted for each incorrect response.
- On the other hand, INI CET consists of 200 multiple-choice questions with a similar marking scheme.
Admission Process for DGO
1. National-Level Counselling
- For admission to DGO at the national level, you will have to participate in centralised counselling conducted by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
- The process starts with registration on the official website, followed by choice-filling and locking.
- Based on your NEET PG or INI CET rank, seats will be allotted during the counselling rounds.
- Once you are allotted a seat, you can either accept it or participate in subsequent rounds for better options.
2. State-Level Counselling
- Certain states conduct their own counselling procedures for DGO admissions.
- Candidates can register online, fill in their choices of colleges/institutions, and participate in the counselling process.
- Seats are then allotted based on factors like reservation policies, state domicile criteria, and merit rank obtained in the entrance exam.
Duration and Fees for the DGO Course
- The DGO course typically has a duration of two years and includes both theoretical learning and practical training. During this period, candidates are also required to complete an internship in hospitals or healthcare settings.
- The approximate fee range for government colleges is ₹50,000-₹1 lakh per year. Private colleges may charge anywhere between ₹5 lakhs to ₹15 lakhs per year.
Comprehensive Understanding of the DGO Syllabus
1. Core Subjects
The DGO syllabus covers a wide range of subjects related to gynaecology and obstetrics. Key topics include reproductive health, high-risk pregnancies, infertility management, gynaecological oncology, endocrinology, and family planning. You will also study subjects like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pathology, pharmacology, etc. to gain a holistic understanding of women's health.
2. Practical Training
Practical training plays a crucial role in the DGO curriculum as it provides hands-on experience in diagnosing and managing women's health issues. Candidates are required to undergo rotations in different departments such as labour room management, gynaecological surgeries, ultrasound units, family planning clinics, antenatal care units, etc. This exposure helps develop clinical skills and fosters confidence in dealing with patients effectively.
3. Research & Dissertation
As part of the course requirements for DGO specialisation, candidates undertake research work under the guidance of mentors. They learn research methodology and explore various research areas related to women's health. Conducting independent research and writing a dissertation help enhance analytical skills and contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge in the fields of gynaecology and obstetrics.
Exploring Career Opportunities with DGO
Pursuing a specialisation like DGO can open up a plethora of career opportunities for you. With increasing awareness about women's health and a growing emphasis on preventive healthcare measures, there is a rising demand for skilled professionals in this field.
Here are some popular job roles for DGO graduates, along with their average annual salaries:
- Obstetrician/Gynaecologist: ₹10-15 lakhs
- Infertility Specialist: ₹8-12 lakhs
- Reproductive Endocrinologist: ₹10-15 lakhs
- Perinatologist: ₹10-20 lakhs
- Gynecologic Oncologist: ₹15-25 lakhs
- Foetal Medicine Specialist: ₹8-12 lakhs
- Urogynecologist: ₹8-12 lakhs
- Maternal-Foetal Medicine Specialist: ₹10-20 lakhs
- Laparoscopic Surgeon: ₹8-12 lakhs
- Menopause Specialist: ₹8-12 lakhs
Upskilling Opportunities for DGO Professionals
Upskilling is crucial to staying competitive and enhancing your career prospects in the field of DGO. Here are four certifications that can help broaden your knowledge base, gain specialised skills, and increase your employability in the field of DGO:
- Advanced Certificate Course in Infertility Management (ACIM)
- Diploma in Minimal Access Surgery (DMAS)
- Fellowship Programme in Gynecologic Oncology
- Certificate Course in Maternal-Foetal Medicine (MFMC)
Unleash Your Potential with DGO
In conclusion, pursuing a career in DGO can be a rewarding choice for those interested in women's health. By specialising in obstetrics and gynaecology, you can make a significant difference in the lives of women and contribute to their well-being.
For expert guidance on your career journey and to find suitable upskilling programmes, visit WiZR today!
FAQs
1. Which DGO specialisation has the widest scope for growth?
Gynecologic oncology is one of the most sought-after specialisations within DGO due to the increasing prevalence of gynaecological cancers and advancements in treatment options.
2. Are there any scholarship options available for DGO students?
Yes, several government bodies, private organisations, and medical colleges offer scholarships based on merit and financial need. You can explore these opportunities by visiting the respective scholarship portals or reaching out to institutions directly.
3. Can I pursue DGO after completing my MBBS from a foreign university?
Yes, you are eligible for DGO if your MBBS degree is recognised by the Medical Council of India (MCI) or the respective state medical councils.
4. Which companies hire DGO professionals?
DGO professionals can find employment opportunities in various settings, such as government hospitals, private clinics, fertility clinics, research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, and NGOs working in women's health.
5. How can I finance my upskilling courses after completing DGO?
WiZR provides financing options designed specifically for young professionals seeking career-focused upskilling programmes. Visit WiZR now to explore financing options and kickstart your upskilling journey.