SRIHER MD Respiratory Medicine FAQs
Ques. What is the scope of MD (Respiratory Medicine) in India, and why should I choose SRIHER for this specialisation?
Ans. Respiratory Medicine is one of the fastest-growing specialties in India due to the high burden of tuberculosis, COPD, asthma, lung cancer, and post-COVID pulmonary complications. MD (Respiratory Medicine) graduates can work as pulmonologists in government and private hospitals, academic institutions, research organisations, and the armed forces. SRIHER offers exceptional clinical exposure through its large tertiary care hospital, dedicated pulmonary function labs, bronchoscopy suites, and respiratory ICU, making it one of the best institutions in South India for this specialisation.
Ques. What is the difference between MD (Respiratory Medicine) and MD (General Medicine) in terms of career prospects?
Ans. MD (Respiratory Medicine) is a direct super-specialty-equivalent degree that allows graduates to practice as pulmonologists immediately after completion, without needing a further DM. In contrast, MD (General Medicine) graduates typically need to pursue a DM in Pulmonology for the same level of specialisation. MD (Respiratory Medicine) is therefore a more focused and career-efficient route for those committed to pulmonology.
Ques. How many seats are available for MD (Respiratory Medicine) at SRIHER, and what NEET PG rank is typically required?
Ans. There are 9 total seats - 7 under the General (AIQ) quota and 2 under the NRI quota. The NEET PG rank required varies each year based on the number of candidates and overall competition. Given SRIHER's reputation and the limited seats, candidates typically need a competitive rank. It is advisable to check the previous year's MCC counselling closing ranks on the MCC website for a realistic estimate.
Ques. Is the stipend paid regularly, and does it cover living expenses in Chennai?
Ans. Yes, the monthly stipend is paid regularly by SRIHER throughout the 3-year programme. The stipend ranges from Rs. 48,000 to Rs. 50,000 per month, which is sufficient to cover basic living expenses in Chennai, including food, transport, and personal expenses. However, it does not cover the tuition fee, which must be arranged separately through education loans or family support.
Ques. What clinical procedures and skills will I learn during MD (Respiratory Medicine) at SRIHER?
Ans. The programme provides hands-on training in fibreoptic bronchoscopy, bronchoalveolar lavage, endobronchial biopsy, thoracentesis, intercostal drainage, pleural biopsy, pulmonary function testing (spirometry, DLCO, body plethysmography), polysomnography (sleep studies), non-invasive ventilation (BiPAP/CPAP), and mechanical ventilation in the respiratory ICU. The curriculum also covers recent advances including EBUS (endobronchial ultrasound) and medical thoracoscopy.
Ques. Can I pursue a DM (Pulmonology) or fellowship after completing MD (Respiratory Medicine) from SRIHER?
Ans. MD (Respiratory Medicine) is itself a terminal postgraduate degree that qualifies you to practice as a pulmonologist. However, graduates may pursue additional fellowships in sub-specialties such as interventional pulmonology, sleep medicine, or critical care through NBEMS fellowship programmes or international fellowship opportunities. Some graduates also pursue academic positions or research roles after completing the MD.
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