The role of neurologist

By: Ashley Cruz

Masters of the mind, champions of the central nervous system.

Neurologist

Neurologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the brain, nerves, and spinal cord. The nervous system is the body's control center, it commands everything you think. These professionals are crucial to our society's well-being. The reasons to see a neurologist could range from headaches to movement disorders. It is crucial to have a neurologist whenever you start feeling odd symptoms. A general practice doctor could refer you to a neurologist if neurological problems are showing. To become a Neurologist is a lengthy yet worthwhile way to go. You must be passionate and determined to start your journey to strive in this profession. You must attend a 4-year college university, and consider having a major related to biology to be able to complete your prerequisites. Afterward, they must go through either allopathic (MD) or osteopathic (DO) medical school. Then, like many medical practitioners, they must practice 3-years of residency where they'll go through multiple neurologic practices to prepare them to have their official occupancy. Lastly, they are able to become official Neurologists. Being a neurologist has many different branches, such as pediatric Neurologist, neuromuscular medicine, vascular neurology, neuropsychiatry, neurodevelopmental disabilities, and much more.

Salary & Benefits 

Neurologists on average make $290,000 a year, which is much more than the average US citizen makes in a year ($53,490). Annually you could also receive a bonus of $9,100.  Many factors could affect your pay such as education, experience, location, experience, and performance. Other than the great salary, many benefits come with being a Neurologist. Neurologists normally get 37 days of the year and could get their healthcare covered, as well as their 401K/403B, and many other benefits depending on those previously stated factors. 

Challenges

Being a neurologist is a great profession that is full of constantly learning and helping patients live a more comfortable life. Although, many hardships come with this profession. Keep in mind that there are over 600 neurological diseases that these professionals need to be heavily educated on before stepping foot in the field. This practice is much needed, but it could feel as if they are professionals at defining diseases but not alleviating them. This profession can be extremely emotionally stressful. Many times, these doctors will have to break the news to their patients and their loved ones that their neurological problems could lead to death. It is an act that takes extreme confidence and empathy, which is a skill neurologists must have. It is crucial to remember that every profession comes with challenges and complications, keep them in mind but don't let them discourage you from following your passion.

Conclusion

Neurology is a demanding yet rewarding field. It requires extensive education, practice, experience, and stress, but all those hardships are recompensed with many benefits and the satisfaction of helping others. If you are truly passionate about the nervous system and helping others, consider studying to become a neurologist.

Works Cited

Cleveland Clinic. “What Is a Neurologist? What They Do & When to See One.” Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, 2022, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22277-neurologist.

Com, Salary. “Salary.com Salary Wizard- Do You Know What You’re Worth? | My Benefits Tool and Benefits Calculator | Salary.com.” Salary.com, 2025, www.salary.com/tools/benefits-calculator/neurologist. Accessed 31 Jan. 2025.

D. Andrews, Julia. “Hazards of Being a Neurologist.” Work.chron.com, work.chron.com/hazards-being-neurologist-20205.html.

Decker, Fred. “What Do You Need to Major in to Be a Neurologist?” Work - Chron.com, work.chron.com/need-major-neurologist-10276.html.

Eske, Jamie. “What Is a Neurologist? What They Treat, Procedures, and More.” Www.medicalnewstoday.com, 22 Dec. 2023, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326717.

“How to Become a Neurologist.” Www.aan.com, www.aan.com/tools-resources/how-to-become-a-neurologist/.