Introduction
There are many specializations in the field of medicine, they are majorly divided into two categories: Primary Care and Specialty Care. Within these two groups, doctors vary widely in their specialties and levels of training. Patients with certain medical conditions prefer going to specialists because they have detailed knowledge of the field and will be able to cure the conditions properly. Here, we’ll learn about the types of doctors and their roles, the conditions they specialize in and the procedures that must be performed.
Table of contents
- Who are Primary Care Doctors?
- Who are Speciality Doctors?
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Who are Primary Care Doctors?
A primary care physician is someone who:
- treats minor illnesses
- answers health questions
- conducts health checkups
- performs routine health tests, including those for cholesterol or blood sugar levels
- provides referrals to speciality physicians when necessary
- keeps a person’s medical records together.
Who are Speciality Doctors?
Speciality doctors are medical practitioners who have detailed knowledge and training in the field. This allows them to treat complex medical conditions that primary care doctors may not be able to. Speciality doctors include the following types:
- Allergists: An allergist works on treating allergic diseases and conditions. The conditions include various types of allergies and asthma. Their major field of study is to treat and cure patients with these conditions.
- Dermatologists: Dermatologists specialised in treating diseases and conditions of the skin, nails, and hair. They treat skin conditions such as eczema, skin cancer, acne, and psoriasis. Dermatologists can perform some in-office procedures, to treat certain skin conditions, spot reduction treatment and mole extraction. Some also offer aesthetic procedures, such as chemical peels, Botox injections, and fillers.
- Ophthalmologists: Ophthalmologists are doctors who are specialized in eye and vision care. They treat diseases and conditions related to the eyes and can perform eye surgery. They treat patients with critical eye conditions and may also consult people for routine eye care, including prescribing glasses.
- Obstetrician/gynecologists’: Obstetricians/gynaecologists (OB/GYNs) are trained in preventive care and disease management for female health. The treatment includes:
- female reproductive care
- cancer prevention and diagnosis
- breast care
- pregnancy
- labour and delivery
- infertility
- menopause
For the labour and delivery process, many pregnant women see an OB/GYN on a daily basis.
- Cardiologists: Cardiologists are specialists who hold expertise in the field of the cardiovascular system, including the heart conditions of the patient. They treat several cardiovascular conditions, such as:
- high blood pressure
- high cholesterol
- heart attack and stroke
- heart rhythm problems
- congestive heart failure
Cardiologists can perform many tests and procedures. However, they do not perform heart surgery. Cardiologists require training in internal medicine or paediatrics.
- Gastroenterologists: Gastroenterologists have a core focus on the digestive system. The specialization includes the oesophagus, pancreas, stomach, liver, small intestine, colon, and gallbladder. Gastroenterologists perform procedures like endoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and colonoscopy. Gastroenterologists require training in internal medicine or paediatrics.
- Nephrologists: A nephrologist has specialised knowledge about kidney care and conditions that affect the kidneys. Conditions they can treat include:
- kidney disease
- renal (kidney) failure
- diabetes
- kidney stones
- lupus
- hypertension
Nephrologists have training in kidney transplants and dialysis. They also require training in internal medicine or paediatrics.
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General surgeons: General surgeons provide surgical treatments on many organs and bodily systems. They have training in curing diseases of various bodily organs, including:
- abdomen
- breast
- endocrine system
- gastrointestinal system
- skin
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Orthopaedic surgeon: An orthopaedic surgeon focuses on diseases and conditions of the bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints. They treat all the conditions related to bones, mainly:
- arthritis
- sports injuries
- bone tumours
- back pain
- broken bones
- Osteoporosis
- repetitive strain injuries, such as tennis elbow.
Conclusion
A medical practitioner must go through extensive training and education in order to diagnose and treat specific diseases and conditions.
Because there are so many types of doctors, most people initially visit a primary care physician for health problems. This doctor may refer to or recommend that the patient see a specialist when necessary.
Frequently asked questions
Q1. What are the different types of doctors’ specialisations available?
Ans There are different categories of physicians, each of whom focuses on a particular illness or body system. The scope varies from one specialisation to the next, and each one calls for a specific collection of skills. There are many different types of doctors, including cardiologists, audiologists, dentists, ENT specialists, gynecologists’, orthopedic surgeons, pediatricians, psychiatrists, veterinarians, radiologists, pulmonologists, endocrinologists, oncologists, neurologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, and many more.
Q2. How does one choose their specialization as a doctor?
Ans Choosing a specialization as a doctor is a significant decision that will have a long-lasting impact on your career and professional life. Here are some steps you can take to help you choose your specialization:
- Consider your interest
- Explore different specialties
- Gain experience
- Consider your lifestyle
- Seek guidance
Q3. What is the process of pursuing a specialization in a specific field of medicine?
Ans The process of pursuing a specialization in a specific field of medicine typically involves the following steps:
- Complete Medical School
- Complete Residency
- Obtain a Medical License
- Pass Board Exams
- Consider Fellowship Training
- Continuing Education
Q4. What are the requirements and qualifications needed to become a specialist doctor in a certain area?
Ans. Becoming a specialist doctor in a certain area typically involves completing several years of additional training and meeting certain requirements and qualifications. The specific requirements and qualifications may vary depending on the country and the specialty, but some general guidelines are:
- Medical Degree
- Internship or Residency
- Licensing Exam
- Board Certification
- Continuing Education
Q5. Can a doctor change their specialization later in their career, and how difficult is the process?
Ans. Yes, a doctor can change their specialization later in their career, although the difficulty of the process can vary depending on several factors.
The process of changing the specialization of doctors typically involves completing a new residency program in the desired specialty, which can take several years to complete. This involves applying for and being accepted into a residency program, which may be competitive, and completing the required training and exams.
