Types of Healthcare Professionals You May Need to See
Doctors play a crucial role in achieving and maintaining good health. Whether for routine check-ups or medical treatments, it often involves consulting healthcare professionals. Each doctor specializes in different fields of medicine necessary for your overall well-being. Here are some types of doctors you may need to see:
- Primary Care Physician (PCP)
Primary care physicians are the first healthcare professionals to see if you need help addressing general medical conditions. They are typically family or internal medicine doctors providing comprehensive care in hospitals and clinics.
Aside from diagnosing conditions during health screenings, these physicians can treat acute illnesses, such as urinary tract infections, and injuries, like deep wounds and sprains. If you have a chronic condition needing further care, primary care doctors can also recommend you to suitable specialists.
- Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Doctor
This type of doctor specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders concerning the eyes, nose, throat, or other areas of the head and neck. ENT physicians can treat hearing problems, nose and sinus disorders, balance issues, and tonsil infections. In addition to prescribing medication, these specialists can also perform surgical procedures.
- Dermatologist
Dermatologists assess skin, hair, and nail health. They can spot signs and diagnose conditions like skin cancer, eczema, psoriasis, hair loss, and nail fungus. Besides conducting tests to determine your condition, dermatologists perform various treatments, including cryosurgery, skin biopsies, and mole removal. They can also provide cosmetic procedures, like chemical peels and laser treatments.
- Neurologist
This type of healthcare professional specializes in the brain and nervous system. In addition to common issues like migraines and concussions, neurologists deal with complex disorders, including neuropathy, epilepsy, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease. They also treat brain and spinal cord injuries.
- Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB/GYN)
A gynecologist focuses on female reproductive health, while an obstetrician deals with pregnancy. These specialties are usually combined, making them an obstetrician-gynecologist or OB/GYN.
Seeing this doctor is crucial for all women. Aside from ensuring safe pregnancy, they can assess and detect reproductive health conditions, such as gynecological cancers, sexually transmitted infections, and polycystic ovary syndrome. An OB/GYN also performs necessary tests, like pap smears and HPV testing, and provides ideal options for birth control.
Different types of doctors dramatically contribute to properly diagnosing, treating, and preventing various diseases. Learning more about them can help you navigate your healthcare needs more effectively. Contact the Outpatient Surgical Specialties Center in Omaha, NE for reliable same-day patient care.