Is a background check needed to become a pediatrician?

I would imagine so. I can't imagining taking my kids to a pediatrician who had a history of assault, rape, kidnapping, etc. But that's just the major stuff. If it was something little, then I don't think it will be a big deal. It's not the obtaining a degree part I should be worried about, because all schools accept you regardless of your background. You don't need a background check to graduate with a degree. I would be more worried about getting a job at a hospital or clinic because almost all jobs nowadays do background checks on their applicants. Unless you plan on opening your own practice, then I don't think background checks would matter.