Medicine And Allied Sciences

Branches in General Medicine (Internal Medicine) and Pediatrics

Likhith Likhith · February 22, 2026
this image contains a Career Plan B educational infographic on a solid blue background with the central title “BRANCHES IN GENERAL MEDICINE (INTERNAL MEDICINE) AND PEDIATRICS” in bold black text, surrounded by flat medical icons including test tubes, a medical shield with a cross, the Star of Life symbol, a DNA helix, medicine bottles, a capsule, a first-aid briefcase, a calendar, a stopwatch, and an apple, visually representing medical specialties, internal medicine and pediatrics branches, healthcare education, clinical practice areas, and career pathways in medicine.

Introduction

In the field of postgraduate medical education in India, General Medicine (also known as Internal Medicine) and Pediatrics stand out as foundational broad specialties. These MD courses, regulated by the National Medical Commission (NMC), equip doctors to handle a wide range of adult and child health issues. Many pursue further super-specialization through DM programs for focused expertise.

This guide covers key branches, progression to subspecialties, and practical insights—all drawn from official NMC sources.

What is General Medicine (internal medicine)?

  • MD General Medicine is a 3-year postgraduate degree focused on diagnosing and managing diseases in adults. It serves as the core for adult internal medicine care, covering multisystem disorders, chronic illnesses, and acute conditions.
  • Key areas include preventive care, infectious diseases, cardiology basics, endocrinology, and more. Graduates often work as internists in hospitals or clinics.
  • The program emphasizes broad competence in internal medicine, including basic sciences and systemic diseases.

Branches and Subspecialties After MD General Medicine

MD General Medicine acts as a primary feeder for numerous DM super-specialties. These allow deeper focus after clearing exams like NEET-SS.

Common super-specialties (DM branches) include:

  • DM Cardiology
  • DM Neurology
  • DM Nephrology
  • DM Endocrinology
  • DM Medical Gastroenterology
  • DM Pulmonology (Respiratory Medicine feeder often overlaps)
  • DM Infectious Diseases
  • DM Critical Care Medicine
  • DM Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology

These subspecialties build on MD training, enabling expertise in specific organ systems or conditions. For example, DM Cardiology deals with heart disorders, while DM Nephrology focuses on kidney diseases.

NMC lists MD General Medicine as a key feeder for many DM courses.

What is Pediatrics (Paediatrics)?

  • MD Paediatrics is a 3-year postgraduate program dedicated to child health—from newborns to adolescents (up to 18 years). It covers growth, development, nutrition, infections, and pediatric emergencies.
  • The curriculum includes neonatology, community pediatrics, systemic disorders, and behavioral aspects. Graduates become pediatricians managing child illnesses, vaccinations, and preventive care.
  • Require competencies in recognizing child health needs, communication with families, and community-level practice.

Branches and Subspecialties After MD Pediatrics

MD Paediatrics opens doors to child-focused DM super-specialties, addressing complex pediatric conditions.

Key DM branches include:

  • DM Neonatology (newborn intensive care)
  • DM Paediatric Cardiology
  • DM Paediatric Gastroenterology
  • DM Paediatric Nephrology
  • DM Paediatric Oncology
  • DM Paediatric Neurology
  • DM Paediatric Critical Care
  • DM Paediatric Hepatology

These programs provide advanced training in niche areas like heart defects in children, childhood cancers, or neurological issues.

NMC recognizes these as super-specialty qualifications following MD Paediatrics.

How Career Plan B Helps

Unsure about pursuing MD General Medicine, Pediatrics, or a DM subspecialty? 

Career Plan B offers Personalized Career Counselling to clarify options after MBBS or PG. 

Take Psycheintel and Career Assessment Tests for insights into your strengths. Get Admission and Academic Profile Guidance for NEET-PG/SS prep, plus Career Roadmapping to plan broad-to-super-specialty paths effectively. 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is the difference between General Medicine and Internal Medicine in India?
    They are often used interchangeably. MD General Medicine is the official NMC-recognized degree for adult internal medicine practice.
  1. Can I pursue DM directly after MBBS?
    No. DM super-specialties require completing MD in a feeder broad specialty like General Medicine or Paediatrics first.
  1. How competitive are DM seats in Pediatrics branches?
    Highly competitive via NEET-SS. Popular ones like Neonatology or Paediatric Cardiology often have limited seats in top institutes.
  1. Are these branches recognized only in India?
    NMC-recognized degrees are valid in India. Many are accepted internationally with additional licensing exams.
  1. What if I’m interested in both adult and child care?
    Start with MD General Medicine or Paediatrics, then explore overlapping feeders (e.g., DM Endocrinology accepts both).
  1. Where can I check official lists?
    Visit the NMC website (nmc.org.in) for PG regulations, course lists, and guidelines.

Conclusion

General Medicine and Pediatrics form the backbone of adult and child healthcare in India. MD programs provide broad expertise, while DM subspecialties allow mastery in targeted areas like cardiology, neurology, neonatology, or oncology.

Choosing the right path depends on your interests, aptitude, and long-term goals. Stay updated via official NMC sources for the latest regulations.

Ready to map your medical career? Explore personalized guidance to make informed decisions. Your journey to specialization starts with clarity—take the next step today!

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