Specialists: Doctors Who Go a Step Further

While your PCP can take care of most of your health care needs, sometimes you need a little more help. That's when your doctor may refer you to a specialist. A specialist is a doctor who focuses on diagnosing and treating a specific condition, or part of the body. In fact, there is a specialist for just about every part of your body—inside and out. Here are some common types of specialists:

Bone Doctor: Orthopedist

Diagnoses and treats problems of the bones and joints.

Cancer Doctor: Oncologist

Diagnoses and treats all types of cancers and consults with radiologists and surgeons on other treatments.

Eye Doctor: Ophthalmologist

Diagnoses and treats problems related to the eyes and vision, including vision correction with glasses or contact lenses, and treatment of eye diseases such as glaucoma.

Heart Doctor: Cardiologist

Diagnoses and treats disorders of the heart and blood vessels.

Stomach Doctor: Gastroenterologist

Diagnoses and treats problems of the stomach, pancreas, intestines, liver, and gall bladder, such as abdominal pain, ulcers, cancer, and jaundice.

Women's Doctor: Obstetrician/Gynecologist

Provides prenatal and pregnancy care, treats problems of the female reproductive organs, and helps through menopause.