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Physicians today practice within a multitude of specialties and sub–specialties. To help you make appropriate choices and gain confidence in the expertise of your health professional, the following brief descriptions offers details concerning the variety of Physician specialities. Please click the letter that corresponds with the first letter of the medical specialty.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

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Allergists and immunologists (search Allergy & Immunology) – A subspecialty of internal medicine concerned with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of problems with the human immune system. Examples of areas of treatment or include asthma, rhinitis, eczema and reactions to drugs, food and insect bites or stings.

Anesthesiologist (search Anesthesiology) – Provides pain relief and maintenance or restoration of a stable condition during and immediately following an operation or an obstetric or diagnostic procedure. The anesthesiologist assesses the risk of the patient undergoing surgery and optimizes the patientÕs condition prior to, during, and after surgery. Anesthesiologists diagnose and treat acute and long–standing pain problems; diagnose and treat patients who have critical illnesses or are severely injured; and direct resuscitation in the care of patients with cardiac or respiratory emergencies, including the provision of artificial ventilation.

Audiologist (search Audiology) – Audiologists assesses hearing and determines the nature of hearing disorders. They are responsible for the non–medical management and rehabilitation of hearing loss and associated disorders of communication.

B

Breast Surgeon (search Breast Surgery) – Expert in the investigation, preservation, and restoration by medical, surgical, and rehabilitative means of all structures of the breast directly affecting the form and function of the breast.  Often performs diagnostic procedures/surgical removal for breast cancer, breast lumps, mammography, breast self exam, nipple discharge or breast pain.

C

Cardiologist (search Cardiology) – Is a physician who is certified to treat problems of the cardiovascular systemÑthe heart, arteries, and veins. Cardiology is classified as an internal medicine subspecialty.  Cardiologists prevent, diagnose and treat conditions of the heart, blood vessels and circulation system in adult patients.  Manages complex cardiac conditions such as heart attacks and abnormal heartbeat rhythms.  Often performs diagnostic procedures like cardiac catheterization.

Cosmetic & Dermatologic Laser (search Cosmetic & Dermatologic Laser) – With the Diolite 532 laser, your doctor can offer you the latest in treatment options to eliminate unattractive skin lesions with the gentle action of a light beam. The laser allows non–traumatic treatments of vascular and pigmented skin lesions that are comfortable, safe and effective. The mild and precise treatment characteristics of the laser provide consistent results and, in most cases, treatments are preformed without any anesthesia or pain. 

Critical Care Medicine (search Critical Care) – An internist who specializes in critical care medicine. Manages life–threatening disorders, in intensive care units and other hospital settings, including shock, coma, heart failure, trauma, respiratory arrest, drug overdoses, massive bleeding, diabetic acidosis, and kidney failure.

Dermatologist (search Dermatology) – Expert in the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric and adult patients with benign and malignant disorders of the skin, mouth, external genitalia, and hair and nails, as well as a number of sexually transmitted diseases. Can diagnose and treat skin cancers, melanomas, moles, and other tumors of the skin, contact dermatitis, and other allergic and nonallergic disorders.

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F

Facial Plastic Surgery (search Facial Plastic Surgery) – A growing number of Otolaryngologists ((Ear, Nose & Throat doctors) perform a wide range of head and neck plastic surgery, including cosmetic surgery. Plastic surgery is a surgical method of reconstructing and repairing deformities, which are present at birth, or caused by burns, injuries, wounds, or disease. It is a means, practiced by many physicians, of restoring both function and appearance.

Family Practice (search Family Practice) – Trained to prevent, diagnose and treat a wide variety of ailments in patients of all ages.  Has broad–range training beyond the traditional general practitioner that includes surgery, psychiatry, internal medicine, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics and geriatrics.  Cares for families on a continuing basis, referring to specialist as needed.

Foot & Ankle Surgeon (search Foot & Ankle Surgery) – Expert in the investigation, preservation, and restoration by medical, surgical, and rehabilitative means of all structures of the foot directly affecting the form and function of the foot & ankle.

G

Gastroenterologist (search Gastroenterology) – Gastroenterology is the subspecialty of internal medicine concerned with disorders and conditions of the gastrointestinal ("GI") tract, also called the digestive tract. More specifically, gastroenterologists are concerned with the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines (colon), pancreas, gallbladder and liver.  Treats conditions such as abdominal pain, ulcers, diarrhea, cancer and jaundice.  Does a diagnostic procedure with lighted scopes to view internal organs.

General Surgeon (search Surgery) – General surgery is the management of a broad range of diseases.  Treatment by a general surgeon varies somewhat depending on the needs of the patient in the community and the background and skills of the surgeon.  Most general surgeons perform gastrointestinal, breast and anorectal operations as well as hernia repairs, laparoscopic and open operations for gallbladder.

Geriatric Medicine (search Gerontology) – Geriatrics is the subspecialty of internal medicine concerned with the health and well being of older adults. Geriatricians diagnose, treat and manage diseases and conditions that require a special approach when dealing with older adults. They give special attention to situations of special concern, including falls, incontinence, preoperative assessment and post–operative management, cerebrovascular disease, dementia, sensory impairment and other cognitive and affective changes that occur with aging. 

Gynecologist (search Gynecology) – A doctor that specializes in the administration of health care to women. They are particularly concerned with the reproductive system. They can also take care of all you non–pregnancy female health needs (i.e.: Pap smears, breast exams).

H

Hand Surgeon (search Surgery, Hand) – Expert in the investigation, preservation, and restoration by medical, surgical, and rehabilitative means of all structures of the upper extremity directly affecting the form and function of the hand and wrist.

I 

Infectious Disease (ID) (search Infectious Diseases) – ID specialists have expertise in infections of the sinuses, heart, brain, lungs, urinary tract, bowel, bones and pelvic organs. Their extensive training focuses on all kinds of infections, including those caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Many ID physicians specialize in treating patients with infections due to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the cause of AIDS.  Along with their specialized knowledge comes a particular insight into the use of antibiotics and their potential adverse effects. ID specialists also have additional training in immunology (how the body fights infection), epidemiology (how infections spread) and infection control.

Internal Medicine (search Internal Medicine) – Often called "internists" or "general internists," focus on adult medicine. They care for their patients for lifeÑfrom the teen years through old age. Internists have had special study and training that focuses on the prevention and treatment of adult diseases. Internists are equipped to deal with whatever problem a patient brings –– no matter how common or rare, or how simple or complex. They are specially trained to solve puzzling diagnostic problems and can handle severe chronic illnesses and situations where several different illnesses may strike at the same time. They also bring to patients an understanding of wellness (disease prevention and the promotion of health), women's health, substance abuse, mental health, as well as effective treatment of common problems of the eyes, ears, skin, nervous system and reproductive organs.

Interventional Cardiology (search Interventional Cardiology) – Is a subspecialty of cardiology, the subspecialty of interventional cardiology consists of the diagnosis, medical and mechanical therapy, pre– and post–procedure management of adult patients with acute and chronic forms of cardiovascular disease amenable to catheter–based therapy. That offers the latest technological breakthroughs in the treatment of coronary artery disease, including angioplasty, stents, atherectomy, laser angioplasty, brachytherapy, percutaneous myocardial revascularization, and growth factors for growing new blood vessels.

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M

Maternal and Fetal Medicine (search Maternal Fetal Medicine) – A certified obstetrician–gynecologist who has special training in caring for patients with complications of pregnancy. Special knowledge in the obstetrical, medical, and surgical complications of pregnancy and their effects on both the mother and the fetus; diagnosis and treatment of patients with complicated pregnancies; and newborn adaptation.

N

Nephrologist (search Nephrology) – Nephrology is the subspecialty of internal medicine concerned with disorders of the kidneys and urinary system that often result from high blood pressure, fluid and mineral balance, dialysis of bodily waste (when kidneys do not function).  Nephrologist diagnose and treat kidney diseases, including both the conditions these diseases can produce – such as hypertension – as well as disseases that can cause kidney failure – such as diabetes mellitus and polycystic kidney disease.

Nuclear Medicine (search Nuclear Medicine) – In nuclear medicine diagnosing techniques, very small amounts of radioactive materials are introduced into the body. Because they are attracted to specific organs, bones or tissues, the emissions they produce can provide crucial information about a particular type of cancer or disease. Information gathered during a nuclear medicine technique is more comprehensive than other imaging procedures because it describes organ function, not just structure. The result is that many diseases and cancers can be diagnosed much earlier.

Neurological Surgeon (search Neurosurgery) – Provides surgery and non–operative management of disorders of the bodyÕs nervous systems, their support structures and blood supply.  Provides care for patients with epilepsy, ParkinsonÕs disease, tumors and lesions of the brain and spinal cord.  Assists with pain management.

Neuropsychology (search Neuropsychology) – A neuropsychological evaluation can only be done by a psychologist who has had specialized training and experience in the field.  A neuropsychological evaluation is recommended for any case in which brain–based impairment in cognitive function or behavior is suspected. Typical referrals are made to diagnose or rule out the following conditions, and to describe their impact on a person's cognitive functioning: traumatic brain injury, strokes, developmental learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, psychiatric or neuropsychiatric disorders, seizure disorders, medical illness or treatments, effects of toxic chemicals or chronic substance abuse and dementing conditions (e.g., Alzheimer's Disease).

O 

Obstetrician/Gynecologist (search Obstetrics & Gynecology) – Specializes in the medical and surgicall care of the female reproductive system and associated disorders.  Treats pregnancy, menopause and fertility problems.  A physician my work in one area (obstetrics) or the other (gynecology). 

Oncologists (search Oncology) – Medical oncology is the subspecialty of internal medicine that focuses on treating cancer. There are two other types of clinical oncologists – surgical oncologists and radiation oncoologists. In most cases, when a person is diagnosed with cancer, one of these oncologists takes charge of the patient's overall care through all phases of the disease.  Oncologists care for patients from the moment of diagnosis, through the course of the disease. They explain the diagnosis and meaning of the disease stage, discuss various treatment options, recommend the best course of treatment, deliver optimal care, and improve quality of life –– through curative therapy and palliative care with pain and symptom management.

Ophthalmologist (search Ophthalmology) – Provides comprehensive eye and vision care.  The only physicians medically trained to diagnose, monitor and medically or surgically treat all eyelid and orbital problems affecting the eye and visual pathways.  May also prescribe glasses and contact lenses.

Oral/Maxillofacial Surgeon (search Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery) – Surgically treats diseases and abnormalities of the teeth and mouth, and surgically treats and manages craniofacial problems.

Orthopedic Surgeon (search Orthopedics) – Provides care for musculoskeletal problems including fractures of bones, injuries, deformities, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and disturbances of the musculoskeletal system.

Otolaryngologists (ENT) (search Ear, Nose and Throat) – Study all diseases and treatment of ear, nose, throat, sinus, neck, and face problems. They are trained to treat medically and surgically all the aforementioned areas of the head and neck in both adults and children.  It is not generally known that ENT doctors have special interest in the following areas: Hearing and hearing aids, snoring and sleep apnea surgery, ear surgery, nasal surgery including rhinoplasty, facial plastic surgery, and allergy diagnosis and treatment.

P

Pediatric Dentistry (search Pediatric Dentistry) – Realigns the natural teeth for functional and cosmetic reasons in children.

Pediatrician (search Pediatrics) – Physician specialist concerned with the health, welfare and development of children, adolescents and young adults.  Offers well child and preventive care.  Understands the constantly changing status and standard of what is normal for a specific age.

Plastic Surgery (search Plastic Surgery) – Expert in the repair, reconstruction, or replacement of physical defects of form or function involving the skin, musculoskeletal system, craniomaxillofacial structures, hand, extremities, breast and trunk, and external genitalia. Special knowledge and skill in the design and surgery of grafts, flaps, free tissue transfer, and replantation.

Podiatrists (search Podiatry) – Look after the health of people's feet by diagnosing, treating and preventing foot abnormalities, and by educating the public about good foot health.

Psychiatrist (search Psychiatry) – Specialist in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of mental, addictive and emotional disorders like psychoses, depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, developmental disabilities and sexual dysfunction.  May assist with stress, crises and lifestyle problems.

Psychologists (search Psychology) – Study human behavior, conduct research and apply research findings in order to minimize distress, behavioral and psychological problems, and to promote mental health and rational behavior in individuals and groups.

Pulmonologist (search Pulmonary Disease) – Pulmonology is the subspecialty of internal medicine concerned with diseases of the lungs and bronchial tubes, which often involves evaluation of the upper respiratory tract (nose, pharynx and throat) as well as the heart. Pulmonologist are specially trained in diseases and conditions of the chest, such as pneumonia, asthma, tuberculosis, emphysema, or complicated chest infections.

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R

Radiation Oncologist (search Radiation Oncology) – Medical oncology is the subspecialty of internal medicine that focuses on treating cancer. There are two other types of clinical oncologists – surgical oncologists and radiation oncologists. In most cases, when a person is diagnosed with cancer, one of these oncologists takes charge of the patient's overall care through all phases of the disease.  Oncologists care for patients from the moment of diagnosis, through the course of the disease. They explain the diagnosis and meaning of the disease stage, discuss various treatment options, recommend the best course of treatment, deliver optimal care, and improve quality of life – through curative therapy and palliative care with pain and symptom management.

Rheumatologists (search Rheumatology) – Rheumatology is the subspecialty of intternal medicine concerned with joints, muscles and bones and their roles in health and disease. Rheumatologists are specially trained to do the detective work necessary to discover the cause of swelling and pain. It could be one of more than 100 diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, lupus, back pain, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia or tendonitis.

S 

Sport Medicine Specialist (search Sports Medicine) – A subspecialty with special expertise in exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, psychology, physical rehabilitation, and epidemiology related to improving health care of individuals engaged in physical exercise (sports).

T

U

Urologist (search Urology) – An urologist is a physician who has specialized knowledge and skill regarding problems of the male and female urinary tract and the male reproductive organs. Treats disease or injuries to the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra; in males, treats disorders of the prostate and genitals.  Investigates male fertility and sexuality dysfunction.

V

Vascular/Peripheral Surgeon (search Surgery, Vascular & Peripheral) – A surgeon with special qualifications iin the management of surgical disorders of the blood vessels, excluding those immediately adjacent to the heart, lungs, or brain.

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MD vs. DO

What is the difference MD vs. DO?

If you are like most people, you have been going to a doctor ever since you were born, and perhaps were not aware whether you were seeing a D.O. (Osteopathic Physician) or and M.D. (Allopathic Physician).  You may not even be aware that there are two types of complete physicians in the United States. The fact is both D.O.Õs and M.D.Õs are complete physicians.  They are both licensed to perform surgery and prescribe medication in all 50 states.  Is there any difference between these two kinds of doctors? Yes and no.

D.O.Õs and M.D.Õs are alike in many ways:

What makes them different:

• D.O.’s practice a “whole person” approach to medicine.  Instead of just treating specific symptoms or illnesses, they regard your body as an integrated whole.
• Osteopathic physicians focus on preventive healthcare.
• D.O.’s receive extra training in the musculoskeletal system (your body’s interconnected system of nerves, muscles and bones that make up two–thirds of its body mass).
• Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is incorporated in the training and practice of osteopathic physicians. With OMT, osteopathic physicians use their hands to diagnose injury and illness and to encourage your body’s natural tendency toward good health.