Specialty Spotlight: The Different Faces of Medical Care

Navigating healthcare can be complex, especially when it comes to understanding specialty care. From cardiologists to endocrinologists, knowing which doctor to turn to and how to access them can make all the difference in health outcomes. Yet, studies show that many employees struggle to fully comprehend their healthcare benefits and the types of medical specialists available to them. This issue can lead to delayed care, higher costs, and missed opportunities for effective treatment. This edition explores the critical need for improving employee awareness and access to specialty care because better understanding means better health.

• Health Literacy Rates: According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about 88% of adults have difficulty using everyday health information. This suggests that many employees may need help understanding the differences between specialty doctors and how to access the appropriate care.
• Access to Specialty Care: A McKinsey study found that 20-40% of U.S. employees have reported difficulty accessing specialty care due to lack of awareness, cost concerns, or confusion about navigating the healthcare system.
• Employee Healthcare Benefits Understanding: The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) reports that only 19% of employees fully understand their health benefits. This limited understanding can extend to knowledge about specialists covered by their plans.
• Provider Networks and Referrals: According to a survey conducted by The Commonwealth Fund, 33% of adults reported difficulties in understanding whether or not they needed a referral to see a specialist, adding to the confusion over when and how to access specialty doctors.

These figures highlight that many employees may not fully understand the different types of specialty doctors or how to access the appropriate care when needed, largely due to broader issues related to health literacy and benefit comprehension.

Primary Care Physician (PCP)

Your primary care physician, or PCP, is your go-to doctor for almost everything. They’re like the quarterback of your healthcare team, overseeing your general health and guiding you to the right specialists when necessary. Whether you’re feeling under the weather with a cold, need a routine physical, or have a chronic condition like high blood pressure, your PCP is usually the first doctor you’ll see. They also manage preventive care like vaccinations, health screenings, and wellness check-ups. PCPs can treat a wide range of common issues, but when something more specialized is needed—like a heart problem or a skin issue—they’ll refer you to the right specialist. Having a good relationship with your PCP is essential because they keep track of your medical history and can help you navigate your healthcare more efficiently.

Cardiologist

A cardiologist is like your heart's personal health coach. Their main focus is on diagnosing and treating heart-related issues. If you have high blood pressure, experience chest pain, or just want to make sure your heart is ticking along as it should, they’re the specialists you’ll see. They handle a range of conditions, from heart attacks and coronary artery disease to heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias). Cardiologists can perform tests like EKGs and stress tests, and if necessary, they may recommend more invasive procedures like heart catheterization or even surgery—though a heart surgeon would handle the latter. For anyone with a family history of heart disease or who has risk factors like smoking, obesity, or diabetes, a cardiologist might become a key player in maintaining overall health.

A few conditions commonly treated by cardiologists include: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) like Angina and Heart Attacks, heart rhythm disorders like Atrial Fibrillation, heart failure, valvular heart diseases, Hypertension, Cardiomyopathy, Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), congenital heart defects, arrhythmia, Aortic Aneurysm, Pulmonary Hypertension, ischemic heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and heart valve disorders.

Dermatologist

A dermatologist is a specialist who knows everything about your skin, hair, and nails. They’re the ones to see if you’re dealing with anything from acne and eczema to more serious conditions like skin cancer. While many people visit dermatologists for cosmetic reasons—such as treating wrinkles, dark spots, or even hair loss—they’re also experts in diagnosing and treating chronic skin diseases and infections. If you’ve ever had a suspicious mole or rash that won’t go away, a dermatologist can assess it and, if needed, perform a biopsy or other treatments. They’re also the specialists you’d visit for minor surgical procedures like removing cysts, warts, or suspicious skin lesions.

A few conditions commonly treated by dermatologists include: acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, bacterial skin infections like impetigo, fungal infections like ringworm or athlete's foot, viral infections like herpes simplex and warts, skin cancer, rosacea, hair disorders like alopecia, nail disorders, hyperpigmentation disorders like melisma, dermatological allergies like hives and allergic contact dermatitis, skin conditions related to aging, keratotic disorders, and connective tissue disorders like lupus erythematous and scleroderma.

Endocrinologist

Endocrinologists are the experts in hormones and the glands that produce them. Hormones regulate almost everything in your body, from how you grow to how you metabolize food, so an endocrinologist’s job is pretty crucial. Common reasons to see an endocrinologist include conditions like diabetes (since insulin is a hormone), thyroid problems, and hormonal imbalances that might affect things like metabolism, growth, or mood. If your primary care physician suspects something is off with your hormones—like if you’re feeling unusually tired, gaining or losing weight unexpectedly, or having fertility issues—they might refer you to an endocrinologist to get a more in-depth diagnosis and treatment plan. These specialists often work with long-term management of conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid disease, helping patients maintain balance in their hormone levels.

A few common endocrine disorders are Diabetes, thyroid disorders like Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Osteoporosis, and growth hormone disorders. A few other examples of conditions an endocrinologist may treat include pituitary disorders like Cushing's Disease, hormone imbalances like menopause and perimenopause, metabolic disorders, bone disorders, calcium disorders, neuroendocrine tumors, and infertility issues.

Rheumatologist

A rheumatologist specializes in treating autoimmune diseases and conditions that affect your joints, muscles, and bones. If you’ve ever heard of conditions like arthritis, lupus, or fibromyalgia, those are in the rheumatologist’s realm of expertise. These diseases often cause pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the body, and they’re typically chronic, meaning long-term care and management are needed. Rheumatologists are trained to spot the subtle signs of autoimmune disorders that can sometimes be hard to diagnose. If you have symptoms like unexplained joint pain, fatigue, or swelling, a rheumatologist will likely run tests to figure out what’s going on. They often work closely with other specialists and focus on managing symptoms, reducing inflammation, and helping patients maintain mobility and a good quality of life.

A few rheumatological conditions these specialists can help with include: arthritis, inflammatory conditions, gout, autoimmune disease, connective tissue disorders, vasculitis, bone disorders like osteoporosis and osteomalacia, soft tissue disorders like bursitis and fibromyalgia, systemic conditions, joint pain, lupus nephritis, sarcoidosis, and Raynaud's phenomenon. Rheumatologists also treat autoimmune disorders. With over 100 autoimmune diseases, (many of which occur in clusters), understanding these conditions can enhance your knowledge of autoimmunity. Some autoimmune conditions include Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Type 1 Diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Psoriasis, Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, Crohn's Disease, Graves' Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, and Sj?gren's Syndrome.

Gastroenterologist

A gastroenterologist is the digestive system’s best friend. These specialists focus on everything from your esophagus down to your colon, dealing with conditions that affect the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and more. If you’ve ever experienced heartburn that won’t quit, chronic bloating, or digestive issues like IBS, a gastroenterologist is the doctor who’ll figure out what’s going on. They diagnose and treat conditions like acid reflux, ulcers, Crohn’s disease, and even more serious issues like liver disease or colon cancer. Procedures like colonoscopies or endoscopies are also part of their toolkit to get a closer look at your digestive tract and ensure everything’s functioning properly. If your digestive system feels out of whack, a gastroenterologist will work to get things back on track.

Some common conditions treated by Gastroenterologists include: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Celiac Disease, Peptic Ulcers, Hepatitis, Diverticulitis, Gallbladder Disease, constipation, colon polyps, Colorectal Cancer. They're also able to assist with diagnosing issues involving food intolerances and sensitivities, parasite infections, Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), H. pylori Infection, Celiac Disease, hemorrhoids, and vitamin deficiencies.

Neurologist

A neurologist is an expert in the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. These specialists deal with a wide range of conditions, from migraines and epilepsy to more serious disorders like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or Alzheimer’s. If you’ve ever experienced unexplained headaches, dizziness, or numbness, a neurologist might perform tests like MRIs or EEGs to figure out what’s happening in your nervous system. They also treat traumatic brain injuries, stroke patients, and those with sleep disorders related to brain function. Neurologists are all about understanding how the brain and nerves communicate with the rest of your body, so if you have symptoms affecting movement, sensation, or cognitive function, they’re the ones to turn to.

Some common conditions treated by neurologists include: migraines, tension headaches, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), peripheral neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome, brain tumors, spinal cord injuries, and sleep disorders like sleep apnea and insomnia. Neurologists also manage autoimmune conditions like myasthenia gravis and Guillain-Barré syndrome, as well as movement disorders such as tremors, dystonia, and ataxia. They address cognitive and memory disorders, including dementia, and treat traumatic brain injuries, concussions, and autonomic dysfunction.

Psychiatrist

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who focuses on mental health, diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more. What makes psychiatrists unique is their ability to prescribe medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, or mood stabilizers. In addition to managing medication, they may provide therapy, though they often collaborate with psychologists or therapists for talk-based treatment. Psychiatrists are especially helpful if you’re dealing with severe or complex mental health issues that require medical management. They can assess both your mental and physical well-being to get a complete picture of how to support your overall health. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, experiencing mood changes, or struggling with mental health in general, a psychiatrist can offer a medical approach to help you feel better.

Some common conditions treated by psychiatrists include: Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Eating Disorders, and Substance Use Disorders. Psychiatrists also help manage Personality Disorders, Panic Disorders, Sleep Disorders like Insomnia, and trauma-related conditions. They treat mood disturbances, suicidal ideation, and psychotic disorders, while offering therapies such as medication management, psychotherapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Psychiatrists provide essential care for mental health crises, long-term mental illness, and emotional and behavioral challenges.

Allergist / Immunologist

An allergist or immunologist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the immune system, such as allergies, asthma, and immune disorders. If you experience reactions to things like pollen, certain foods, or pet dander, an allergist can help determine the triggers and provide treatments to manage your symptoms. Beyond common allergies, they also handle more complex immune-related issues, including autoimmune diseases and immune deficiencies, where the immune system either attacks the body or doesn’t work as it should. If you're frequently dealing with rashes, breathing difficulties, or recurrent infections, an allergist/immunologist can provide personalized care to help you feel better and manage your condition long-term.

Allergists commonly treat conditions like: allergic rhinitis, asthma, food allergies, atopic dermatitis, urticaria (hives), insect allergies, drug allergies, and anaphylaxis. Immunologists typically handle conditions like: autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, immunodeficiency disorders, primary immunodeficiency diseases, hypersensitivity disorders which include allergic reactions and asthma, vasculitis, chronic inflammatory conditions like IBD and sarcoidosis, transplant rejection, and cancer immunology.

Oncologist

An oncologist is a specialist who diagnoses and treats cancer. This can be a challenging area of medicine, but oncologists are dedicated to providing the best care possible for patients battling various forms of cancer. There are different types of oncologists: medical oncologists (who manage chemotherapy and other cancer treatments), radiation oncologists (who treat cancer with radiation therapy), and surgical oncologists (who perform surgeries to remove tumors). If you’re diagnosed with cancer or have a high risk of developing it due to family history, an oncologist will work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan. They guide patients through treatment, help manage symptoms, and collaborate with other specialists to offer a comprehensive approach to cancer care.

Some common conditions treated by oncologists include: Breast Cancer, Lung Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Leukemia, Lymphoma, Melanoma, Pancreatic Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Kidney Cancer, Bladder Cancer, Cervical Cancer, Thyroid Cancer, and Stomach Cancer. Oncologists also manage benign tumors, metastatic cancer, sarcomas, myeloma, and paraneoplastic syndromes. Additionally, they provide care for cancer-related pain, offer palliative care, and handle chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and cancer screenings.

Pulmonologist

A pulmonologist is the specialist you’ll see for lung-related issues and anything affecting your respiratory system. If you have trouble breathing, frequent lung infections, or a chronic condition like asthma or COPD, a pulmonologist can help diagnose and treat these problems. They often work with patients who have conditions like pneumonia, bronchitis, or sleep apnea, and they might perform tests like lung function exams or bronchoscopy to get a closer look at how your lungs are working. If you find yourself frequently short of breath, coughing up blood, or dealing with any other concerning respiratory symptoms, a pulmonologist will investigate what’s going on and help you breathe easier, literally.

Some common conditions treated by pulmonologists include: Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema, Interstitial Lung Disease, Pulmonary Fibrosis, Pneumonia, Tuberculosis, and Lung Cancer. They also manage sleep apnea, pulmonary hypertension, and bronchiectasis, as well as conditions affecting the pleura, such as pleurisy and pleural effusion. Pulmonologists conduct diagnostic procedures like bronchoscopy and pulmonary function tests, and they provide treatments such as inhalation therapy, oxygen therapy, and smoking cessation programs. Their expertise is essential in addressing respiratory infections, airway disorders, and other lung-related issues to improve overall lung health.

Orthopedist / Orthopedic Surgeon

An orthopedist is the specialist who focuses on your bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons—basically, everything that keeps you moving. Whether you’ve sprained your ankle, torn your ACL, or suffer from chronic back pain, an orthopedist can diagnose and treat these issues. They handle everything from fractures and arthritis to more complex surgeries like joint replacements. Orthopedists work with people of all ages, from kids with growth plate issues to athletes with sports injuries and seniors with osteoporosis. If you’ve ever broken a bone or dealt with joint pain, an orthopedist helps you get back on your feet, whether through physical therapy, medication, or surgery.

Some common conditions treated by orthopedists include: Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fractures, Sprains, Tendonitis, Bursitis, Ligament Injuries, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Herniated Discs, and Rotator Cuff Injuries. Orthopedists also manage conditions related to the spine, hips, knees, shoulders, and hands, including conditions like scoliosis and osteoporosis. They perform surgical procedures such as joint replacements, arthroscopy, and repairs for ligament and tendon injuries. Additionally, orthopedists provide treatments for sports injuries, overuse injuries, and congenital disorders affecting the musculoskeletal system, helping patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life.

Psychologist

A psychologist is an expert in mental health who focuses on therapy and counseling to help people manage emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues. Unlike psychiatrists, psychologists aren’t medical doctors, so they don’t prescribe medication; instead, they focus on talk therapy to address issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, or stress management. There are many types of psychologists, including clinical psychologists, who treat mental health disorders, and counseling psychologists, who focus on helping people cope with everyday challenges. Psychologists can provide individual therapy, group therapy, or even specialized cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help patients develop healthy coping strategies and improve their mental well-being. If you need someone to talk to and help guide you through emotional challenges, a psychologist is a great resource.

Some common conditions treated by psychologists include: Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Bipolar Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Eating Disorders, and Personality Disorders. Psychologists also address issues related to stress management, grief and loss, relationship problems, and behavioral challenges. They specialize in providing psychotherapy and counseling, employing techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based therapies. Psychologists help individuals develop coping strategies, improve emotional regulation, and enhance overall mental well-being, playing a crucial role in the support and treatment of various psychological conditions.

Hematologist

A hematologist specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders related to blood and bone marrow. Their expertise encompasses a range of conditions, including anemia, clotting disorders, leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. These specialists play a critical role in managing diseases that affect blood cell production and function, ensuring that patients maintain healthy blood levels and overall wellness. Hematologists are trained to recognize the symptoms and underlying causes of hematological issues, often conducting comprehensive blood tests and bone marrow biopsies to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. They work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans, which may include medications, blood transfusions, or stem cell therapies, focusing on improving blood health and quality of life.

A few hematological conditions these specialists can help with include: anemia (iron deficiency, sickle cell anemia, and pernicious anemia), bleeding disorders (hemophilia and von Willebrand disease), blood cancers (leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma), thrombosis (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism), and platelet disorders (thrombocytopenia and thrombocytosis). Understanding these conditions is essential for effective management and treatment, as they can significantly impact a patient's health.

Pediatrician

A pediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in the care of infants, children, and adolescents. They focus on diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, from common illnesses like colds and ear infections to more serious diseases and developmental disorders. Pediatricians provide preventive care, including vaccinations, growth monitoring, and developmental screenings, to ensure children stay healthy as they grow. They are also trained to offer guidance on nutrition, safety, and emotional well-being, and they work closely with parents to manage their child’s health.

A few common areas of focus for pediatricians include: providing routine check-ups and vaccinations, diagnosing childhood illnesses, monitoring growth and development, and treating chronic conditions such as asthma or diabetes.

Urologist

A urologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the urinary tract in both men and women, as well as male reproductive health. Urologists treat conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, incontinence, and prostate issues, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer. They also manage conditions affecting the bladder, kidneys, ureters, and urethra. Urologists perform surgeries, including vasectomies and procedures to remove kidney stones, and often collaborate with oncologists in the treatment of urologic cancers.

A few common areas of focus for urologists include: diagnosing and treating kidney stones, managing prostate conditions, treating bladder dysfunction, and performing surgeries like vasectomies and tumor removals.

Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OBGYN)

An obstetrician-gynecologist (OBGYN) is a physician specializing in women’s reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. They provide a range of services, from routine gynecological exams and contraceptive counseling to prenatal care and labor delivery. OBGYNs are trained to manage a variety of conditions affecting the female reproductive system, including menstrual disorders, hormonal imbalances, and sexually transmitted infections. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as irregular periods, pelvic pain, or changes in your menstrual cycle, an OBGYN can help diagnose and treat these issues.

Common conditions and services offered by OBGYNs include: pregnancy and childbirth care, menopause management, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and cervical cancer screenings (Pap smears). They also perform surgeries, such as hysterectomies and cesarean deliveries. OBGYNs often collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care for their patients.