As a person grows, their body becomes old due to regular wear and tear. The list of medical professionals a person should visit only increases with age. However, as the world goes through rapid changes, the needs of the people are also evolving. The healthcare sector is no longer just about doctors and nurses. There are many non-clinical roles in healthcare for those hoping to make a difference.
While every family has a primary care doctor, they might find themselves requiring help from other medical professionals as well. Furthermore, some chronic conditions need experts from different specializations. It is necessary to see some doctors to maintain your health and wellness. Regular appointments help patients keep themselves aware of ongoing problems. They are also vital for the prevention of chronic illnesses.
On average, most people visit their doctors four times per year. However, some factors can considerably affect whom you visit and how often you do so. For example, people without insurance coverage are less likely to make appointments than others.
It is relevant to mention here that some medical professionals act as intermediaries between patients and the healthcare system. For example, a patient representative with a general studies degree online can help you identify your current and future needs. This article lists five doctors you will commonly encounter in your life.
1. An Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor
- What do they do? ENT specialists specialize in illnesses that affect the ear, nose, and throat region. So, ENTs may treat the common cough or vertigo. They may also treat common ear infections and ruptured eardrums. ENTs may perform cosmetic surgery or reconstructive surgery, which differs from case to case.
- How can I get in touch with one? Ask your family doctor to refer you to an ENT. Since ENTs are specialists, you must get referred to one before visiting them. Most insurance policies have their list of providers for customers. Get in touch with your insurance company to get a list of the healthcare service providers on your plan.
2. Dermatologist
- What do they do? A dermatologist treats conditions of the skin, hair, and nails. Most of them can identify and treat more than three thousand skin conditions. They see people of all age groups from every demographic. Dermatologists can also identify cancers and address the cosmetic concerns of their patients. They have a lot of experience because they have to complete 12,000 hour-long residencies before getting certification. Experts suggest getting annual skin checks to monitor emerging skin conditions.
- How can I get in touch with one? Ask your General Practitioner for a recommendation. You may also seek the advice of your friends and families to find credible doctors. Always ensure that the dermatologist you are seeing is certified by the American Board of Dermatology.
3. Physical Therapist
- What do they do? These highly trained individuals work with people with health conditions that limit their mobility. Their work is challenging as progress is very slow. Most patients need hands-on care with specialized treatment plans to manage pain and restore function. Some PTs work with amputees or people who do not have a limb.
- How can I get in touch with one? Most people need physical therapy after their body goes through trauma. It can either be due to an accident or because of surgery. Your doctor may have a list of competent PTs you can contact. Before you proceed with a PT, check their certification.
4. Gynecologists or Obstetricians
- What do they do? They resolve and manage the reproductive issues of women. It includes common urinary tract infections and hormone disorders. For this purpose, they may carry out pelvic exams, pap smears, and cancer screenings. Many gynecologists are also obstetricians who treat expectant mothers. Women may start visiting gynecologists from their early teens. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists recommends that women should begin consulting Ob-Gyns from their teenage.
- How can I get in touch with one? As previously, we recommend getting in touch with your general practitioner. They can redirect you to a competent gynecologist. You can also ask other people in your family for help.
5. Neurologists
- What do they do? They deal with issues related to the nervous system. They diagnose, treat and manage the disorders of the brain. Since the nervous system is a vast network responsible for many activities, neurologists see people with different complaints. Some common ailments include Alzheimer’s disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease. Child neurologists treat disorders in children that develop in the neonatal or adolescent period. They may conduct tests to evaluate and diagnose complex conditions. However, neurologists do not perform surgery. If you are having trouble walking, talking, or smelling things, then you should contact a neurologist right away.
- How can I get in touch with one? Get in touch with your family practitioner if you are having trouble with cognition and fundamental bodily functions. Your GP will then recommend you to a neurologist if they think you need to see one. Alternatively, you can ask for recommendations from friends or ask your insurance company for referrals.
Conclusion
You may encounter many medical problems in your lifetime. Therefore, you must know whom you should see when in need of an expert. The overarching goal of healthcare is prevention and wellness. Hence, it is necessary to get annual health checkups to monitor ongoing medical conditions and identify the developing illnesses at an early stage.