Mjek

Mjek is the Albanian term for a physician, a medical professional who diagnoses, treats, and prevents illness. A mjek may work in hospitals, clinics, or private practice and may specialize in fields such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, or obstetrics.

Responsibilities include examining patients, ordering and interpreting tests, developing and implementing treatment plans, prescribing medications, performing procedures, and counseling on prevention, vaccination, and healthy lifestyle. Mjekët coordinate with nurses, specialists, and other health workers to manage patient care and ensure continuity of treatment.

Education and licensure: Becoming a mjek requires university-level medical training. In Albanian-speaking regions, medical programs typically last about six years and lead to a degree in medicine. After graduation, doctors may undertake residency or specialization training. Licensure to practice is granted by national health authorities or medical chambers, with requirements for ongoing professional development and adherence to ethical standards.

Etymology and usage: The word mjek is the standard Albanian term for a physician; the exact historical origin is not definitively documented. The definite form is mjeku (the doctor) and the plural mjekët (the doctors). In everyday speech, doktor is also commonly used for a physician and may be interchangeable in many contexts.

See also: Medicine, Healthcare, Medical education.