INSIDE INFORMATION

Click on the questions below to view comments from clinicians.

Why did you choose this specialty, and what do you most like about it?

 

	Urology encompasses a wide range of conditions that can be dealt with in a variety of ways, from major open surgery to more minimally invasive procedures using new technologies. Contributors recommend that work in this area of specialty makes it possible to maintain a reasonable balance between your job and outside interests: urology is said to afford an excellent surgical lifestyle.

 

	Consultants require a wide range of skills from open to endoscopic surgery (which now includes laparoscopy). You should also possess an analytical mind for diagnosing and managing conditions. Good communication skills and sensitivity are also very important attributes to have as you are often dealing with patients with sexual problems.

 

	Most days are occupied with a combination of consulting and operating. A working day might start at 8.00am and finish by 6.00pm. The demands of after-hours call and acute work are usually not too onerous.

 

	The continuing development of operative technology will lead to minimally invasive surgery and an increase in the number of office-based procedures.

 

	You should obtain good overall training in general surgery and subspecialise further once you have completed advanced training in urology.

 

	There are 46 urologists currently practising in New Zealand. Given the increasing demand for the work of urology surgeons, job prospects are excellent.

 

	Travelling and working in another country are seen as being essential to further your experience.

 

	As in all surgical specialties, being on-call and working long hours can impact at times on your availability to family.

 

	It is recommended that you should gain as much experience as possible in urology during BST if you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, because it is very competitive to gain entry to the training programme.