Top 22 Highest Paying Medical Jobs in India in 2025

Being the most populated country in the world leads India to be amongst the largest healthcare sectors in the world. India’s healthcare sector was valued at 372 billion USD in 2023 and is expected to witness further growth.

Since age old, medical professions in India have been regarded with high repute and status. Through cultural values of respect and high acclaim, medical professions in India have always been viewed with a progressive eye and a way to advance in life.

India’s large and complex medical industry demands skilled medical professionals across the country to meet the medical needs of a gigantic population. Additionally, with the onset of tech inculcation, the medical industry is also witnessing innovations and deeper technology utilization.

In this text, we will highlight some of the highest paying medical jobs in India and also shed light on the factors affecting these salary trends as well as skills for medical professionals. Keep reading to explore detailed insights!

Also Read: Public Health Careers in India

Top 22 Highest Paid Medical Jobs in India in 2025

Medical jobs can be quite lucrative as you gain experience, develop a specialization, and establish yourself as a valuable medical professional in the organization you are working in.

Refer to the table below for the average annual salary of the highest paying medical jobs in India:

Source: AmitionBox, Glassdoor

1. Cardiologist

Cardiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating heart-related diseases, including conditions like hypertension, heart attacks, and arrhythmias. They may perform diagnostic tests, interpret data, and recommend lifestyle changes or surgeries.

Qualifications:

• MBBS degree followed by MD in Medicine or DM in Cardiology
• Certification and training in cardiovascular diseases

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose heart conditions through clinical examinations and tests
• Prescribe treatments including medications and lifestyle changes
• Conduct procedures like angiograms and stent placements
• Monitor patient recovery post-cardiac surgeries

2. Orthopedic Surgeon

Orthopedic surgeons focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders, including bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments. They perform surgeries related to fractures, joint replacements, and spine issues.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MS in Orthopedics
• Further training in surgical procedures

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose musculoskeletal conditions
• Perform surgeries like joint replacements and fracture repairs
• Advise rehabilitation plans post-surgery
• Provide non-surgical treatments for joint and bone disorders

3. Surgeon

Surgeons treat a wide range of medical conditions through surgical procedures. They specialize in specific areas (e.g., general surgery, cardiac surgery, or neurosurgery) and work in both planned and emergencies.

Qualifications:

• MBBS degree followed by MS or MD in Surgery
• Extensive surgical training in a specialized field

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct surgical operations to treat diseases or injuries
• Evaluate patient health and decide on surgery necessity
• Manage post-surgical care and recovery
• Monitor and follow up on surgical outcomes

4. Oncologist

Oncologists specialize in diagnosing and treating cancer. They manage various treatment modalities such as chemotherapy, radiation, and sometimes surgery, focusing on improving patient survival and quality of life.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MD in Internal Medicine and DM in Oncology
• Training in chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and cancer management

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose different types of cancer
• Prescribe and administer chemotherapy, radiation, and other treatments
• Monitor patient progress and manage side effects of treatment
• Collaborate with other specialists for comprehensive care

5. Dermatologist

Dermatologists diagnose and treat skin conditions, including diseases, infections, and cosmetic concerns like acne, eczema, or skin cancer. They may perform procedures such as biopsies or skin surgeries.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MD or Diploma in Dermatology
• Specialization in cosmetic dermatology or skin diseases

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose skin conditions and diseases
• Perform dermatological surgeries and treatments
• Recommend skincare routines and cosmetic procedures
• Manage chronic skin conditions like psoriasis and acne

6. Anesthesiologist

Anesthesiologists manage anesthesia during surgeries to ensure patients are pain-free and stable. They monitor vital signs and manage anesthesia dosage before, during, and after surgery.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MD in Anesthesia or DNB in Anesthesia
• Training in pain management and sedation

Key Responsibilities:

• Administer anesthesia and monitor vital signs
• Assess patients' health before procedures and adjust anesthesia accordingly
• Oversee post-operative recovery from anesthesia
• Ensure patient safety throughout surgical procedures

7. Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN)

OBGYNs specialize in female reproductive health, including pregnancy, childbirth, and disorders of the reproductive system. They handle prenatal care, childbirth, and surgeries like C-sections.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MS or MD in Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Training in maternity care and gynecological surgery

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor and manage pregnancy and childbirth
• Diagnose and treat disorders of the female reproductive system
• Perform surgeries such as C-sections or hysterectomies
• Provide counseling and preventive care to women

8. Pediatrician

Pediatricians provide medical care to children, from newborns to adolescents. They focus on preventive health care, growth monitoring, vaccinations, and treatment of common childhood illnesses.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MD or DNB in Pediatrics
• Specialized training in child health care

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose and treat childhood illnesses and infections
• Monitor physical and developmental growth
• Administer vaccines and preventive care
• Offer guidance on nutrition and general child health

9. Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and mood disorders. They prescribe medications, offer psychotherapy, and work with other healthcare professionals.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MD or DNB in Psychiatry
• Specialized training in mental health and psychiatric care

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose mental health conditions
• Provide therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Prescribe and monitor psychiatric medications
• Support patients in managing mental illnesses

10. Ophthalmologist

Ophthalmologists specialize in eye and vision care. They diagnose and treat various eye diseases and perform surgeries such as cataract removal, LASIK, and retinal surgeries.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MS or DNB in Ophthalmology
• Further training in specialized eye surgeries

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose and treat eye diseases and vision problems
• Perform surgeries like cataract removal and LASIK
• Prescribe corrective lenses or treatments
• Monitor post-operative recovery in eye surgeries

11. Orthodontist

Orthodontists focus on diagnosing and treating dental and facial irregularities, particularly those involving the alignment of teeth and jaws. They commonly use braces and other dental appliances.

Qualifications:

• BDS followed by MDS in Orthodontics
• Specialized training in dental appliances and orthodontic techniques

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose dental and facial irregularities
• Apply braces, retainers, and other devices for alignment
• Monitor and adjust orthodontic treatments over time
• Advise patients on oral hygiene and maintenance

12. Plastic Surgeon

Plastic surgeons perform reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries, including repairing physical deformities, and trauma damage, and aesthetic enhancements such as facelifts and body contouring.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MS in General Surgery and MCh in Plastic Surgery
• Training in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery techniques

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries
• Address trauma-related injuries or congenital deformities
• Advise on skin grafts, facelifts, and body reconstruction
• Post-surgical care and rehabilitation

13. Gastroenterologist

Gastroenterologists specialize in disorders of the digestive system, including conditions related to the stomach, liver, intestines, and pancreas. They diagnose and treat diseases like ulcers, IBS, and liver cirrhosis.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MD in Internal Medicine and DM in Gastroenterology
• Training in endoscopy and gastrointestinal procedures

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose digestive system disorders
• Perform endoscopic procedures like colonoscopies and gastroscopies
• Manage chronic gastrointestinal conditions
• Advise on diet and lifestyle modifications

14. Emergency Medicine Physician

Emergency physicians work in emergency departments to provide immediate care for a wide variety of acute injuries and illnesses, often requiring rapid diagnosis and intervention.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MD or DNB in Emergency Medicine
• Additional trauma and critical care training

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose and treat acute medical conditions and injuries
• Provide emergency care for trauma patients
• Stabilize critically ill patients
• Coordinate with other specialists for complex cases

15. Pulmonologist

Pulmonologists treat respiratory disorders, including conditions like asthma, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They often manage intensive care units for respiratory failure patients.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MD in Pulmonary Medicine or DM in Pulmonology
• Training in respiratory diagnostics and treatments

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose and treat lung diseases
• Manage respiratory failure and critical care patients
• Perform bronchoscopy and lung function tests
• Provide pulmonary rehabilitation and lifestyle advice

16. Urologist

Urologists specialize in the urinary tract and male reproductive organs. They treat conditions such as kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and prostate cancer.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MS in General Surgery and MCh in Urology
• Specialized training in surgical procedures for the urinary system

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose and treat urinary tract and reproductive disorders
• Perform surgeries like kidney stone removal or prostatectomy
• Manage chronic conditions like urinary incontinence
• Provide preventive care and lifestyle advice

17. Internal Medicine Physician

Internists diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases in adults, often working as primary care physicians. They specialize in a broad range of conditions but do not perform surgery.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MD in Internal Medicine
• Training in the diagnosis and management of chronic diseases

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose and treat adult diseases and disorders
• Manage long-term conditions like diabetes and hypertension
• Provide preventive care and health screenings
• Coordinate patient care with specialists when necessary

18. Rheumatologist

Rheumatologists specialize in treating autoimmune diseases and disorders related to the joints, muscles, and bones, such as arthritis, lupus, and gout.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MD in General Medicine and DM in Rheumatology
• Training in managing autoimmune and musculoskeletal diseases

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose and treat autoimmune disorders
• Prescribe medications for conditions like arthritis and lupus
• Offer advice on managing chronic inflammatory conditions
• Perform joint injections and other therapeutic procedures

19. Medical Director

Medical directors oversee clinical operations within hospitals or healthcare organizations. They ensure quality care delivery, compliance with regulations, and operational efficiency.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by an MBA  in Medical Administration or Healthcare Management
• Experience in healthcare management

Key Responsibilities:

• Supervise healthcare teams and ensure quality patient care
• Develop and enforce medical policies and procedures
• Oversee clinical training and medical staff performance
• Coordinate with management for budget and operational goals

20. Nephrologist

Nephrologists specialize in kidney diseases, including conditions such as kidney failure, nephritis, and dialysis management.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MD in Medicine and DM in Nephrology
• Expertise in renal care and dialysis management

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose and treat kidney-related diseases
• Manage dialysis and kidney transplant patients
• Provide advice on preventive care for kidney health
• Monitor patients with chronic kidney conditions

21. ENT Specialist

ENT specialists diagnose and treat disorders of the ear, nose, and throat, including hearing loss, sinus issues, and throat infections.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MS in ENT (Otorhinolaryngology)
• Training in advanced ENT procedures and surgeries

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose ear, nose, and throat disorders
• Perform surgeries for sinus problems, ear infections, or vocal cord issues
• Provide treatment for hearing loss and balance disorders
• Advise on preventive ear and throat health

22. Endocrinologist

Endocrinologists treat hormone-related disorders, such as diabetes, thyroid issues, and metabolic conditions, focusing on managing and balancing hormone levels.

Qualifications:

• MBBS followed by MD in Medicine and DM in Endocrinology
• Specialization in diabetes, thyroid disorders, and metabolic diseases

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose and treat endocrine disorders
• Manage diabetes, thyroid diseases, and hormonal imbalances
• Prescribe medications for hormone regulation
• Advise on diet and lifestyle changes to manage conditions

Also check: Exploring the Best Courses in Medical Field

Factors Affecting Salary in the Medical Field in India

The demand for particular medical services, location, expertise, experience, and type of healthcare institution are some of the factors that affect medical salaries in India. 

Knowing these elements enables medical practitioners to successfully negotiate their expected pay and career path.

1. Location: 

• Medical professionals’ salaries are higher in metropolitan cities like Delhi, and Bangalore due to increased demand and cost of living
• Similarly, rural or remote areas offer lower salaries but may include incentives or benefits to attract professionals

2. Education Qualifications: 

• If you possess advanced degrees or specializations such as MD, MS, or DM it can significantly increase your earning potential
• Moreover, additional certifications or training in emerging technologies like AI or robotics can further boost salary prospects

Explore upGrad’s Online AI and ML Courses!

3. Experience:

• Medical professionals with more years of experience command higher salaries due to expertise and patient trust
• Upon reaching senior roles such as consultants or department heads, you will be offered higher pay compared to entry-level positions

4. Industry Demand:

• With high-demand specialties like cardiology, orthopedics, and neurosurgery, you can attract better compensation due to a shortage of specialists
• Emerging fields like telemedicine and healthcare technology also offer competitive salaries as demand rises

5. Organization:

• Private hospitals and corporate healthcare chains often offer higher salaries compared to government-run institutions
• Top-tier medical organizations and prestigious hospitals also pay more due to their reputation and patient base
• Moreover, you may have an increased earning potential if you run a private practice on your own

Essential Skills Required by Medical Professionals

As medical professionals, you work in multifold settings where you need to have a set of multiple and diverse skills to adapt yourself to the needs of the situation. Let’s take a look at some essential skills required by medical professionals given as under:

Check out upGrad’s Soft Skills Courses and enroll now for free!

1. Communication Skills

• With clear communication, you can ensure effective interaction with patients, families, and healthcare teams, leading to better care outcomes.
• Communication also helps in explaining diagnoses, treatment options, and instructions, and improving patient understanding and compliance

Check out our Communication Courses designed to take your communication ability to the next level!

2. Time Management 

• Efficient time management allows medical professionals to handle multiple patients and tasks without compromising care quality
• With proper scheduling and prioritization, you can reduce stress and prevent burnout, ensuring timely delivery of medical services

Read Further Here: 15 Ways to Improve Time Management Skills

3. Attention to Detail

• Precision in diagnosis, treatment plans, and medication administration reduces the risk of errors and enhances patient safety
• Attention to detail ensures that vital information is not overlooked, leading to more accurate patient assessments

4. Critical thinking

• Critical thinking enables you to assess complex situations and make informed decisions quickly
• It helps in diagnosing conditions, solving medical problems, and adapting treatment plans based on patient needs

5. Adaptability

• Adaptability helps medical professionals respond effectively to changes in patient conditions, new medical technologies, or shifting workplace environments
• Being adaptable ensures a high level of performance in dynamic and often unpredictable healthcare settings

6. Leadership

• Leadership skills are crucial for managing medical teams, and ensuring cohesive and effective collaboration in patient care.
• With strong leadership, you can promote patient safety and trust, and also foster a positive work culture

Check out upGrad’s Executive Leadership Program with Cornell

Emerging Trends in the Medical Field

The medical field and healthcare are rapdily advancing in light of modern technologies and newer innovations. With the help of these advancements, the healthcare sector is also being highly influenced and inculcating more efficient tools, be it for more patient management systems or for increasing healthcare accessibility.

Following are some emerging trends in the medical field:

• Increased Digitalization: Medical systems adopting digital tools like electronic health records (EHR) and telemedicine, streamlining patient care and improving accessibility. This shift enhances efficiency, reduces paperwork, and enables seamless communication between healthcare providers and patients.
• Use of Data Analysis and Predictive Analysis: Data analysis and predictive analytics help healthcare professionals identify trends, predict disease outbreaks, and improve treatment plans. By analyzing large datasets, they can make more informed decisions, leading to better patient outcomes and more efficient resource allocation
• Use of Artificial Intelligence: AI is transforming healthcare by enhancing diagnostic accuracy, automating administrative tasks, and personalizing treatment plans. Machine learning algorithms help in early detection of diseases, reducing human error and improving patient care efficiency
• Genomics: By studying genetic data to tailor treatments based on individual DNA profiles, genomics allows for more precise therapies, especially in cancer treatment, and provides insight into disease prevention strategies
• Chatbots and Health Applications: This offers users easy access to healthcare advice, symptom checkers, and medication reminders. These digital tools improve patient engagement, provide real-time support, and help manage chronic conditions more effectively
• Remote Medical Assistance: Now is the era of virtual consultations, making healthcare accessible in rural and underserved areas. Patients can now receive timely advice, follow-up care, and specialist consultations without the need to visit healthcare facilities physically

Conclusion

In this text, we looked at some of the highest paying medical jobs in India. With a rapidly growing healthcare sector, increased healthcare access, and innovations in the way the medical industry functions, India is set to experience an increasing demand for medical professionals. 

Being one of the most lucrative and in-demand career industries in India, the medical industry includes doctors, surgeons, healthcare administrators, pharmacists, staff nurses, and many other professionals in its purview.

In addition to these traditional roles, healthcare management and healthcare technology are also emerging as in-demand roles.

So, if you are interested in building a career in healthcare management, you may check out upGrad’s Healthcare Management Courses!

You may also check our range of free courses from different industry-relevant domains

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