An anesthesiologist is a physician who provides anesthesia for patients undergoing surgical, obstetric, diagnostic, or therapeutic procedures while monitoring the patient’s condition and supporting vital organ functions. The anesthesiologist also diagnoses and treats acute, chronic, and/or cancer pain as well as provide resuscitation and medical management for patients with critical illnesses and severe injuries
Subspecialties
Critical Care Medicine
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Critical Care Medicine diagnoses and treats patients with critical illnesses or injuries, particularly trauma victims and patients with multiple organ dysfunction who require care over a period of hours, days, or weeks. These physicians also coordinate patient care among the primary physician, critical care staff, and other specialists and their primary base of operation is the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to maximize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family.
Neurocritical Care
The medical specialty of Neurocritical Care is devoted to the comprehensive multisystem care of the critically ill patient with neurological diseases and conditions.
Pain Medicine
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Pain Medicine diagnoses and treats patients experiencing problems with acute or chronic pain, or pain related to cancer, in both hospital and outpatient settings and coordinates care needs with other specialists.
Pediatric Anesthesiology
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Pediatric Anesthesiology provides anesthesia for neonates, infants, children, and adolescents undergoing surgical, diagnostic, or therapeutic procedures as well as appropriate pre- and post-operative care, advanced life support, and acute pain management.
Sleep Medicine
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Sleep Medicine has expertise in the diagnosis and management of clinical conditions that occur during sleep, that disturb sleep, or that are affected by disturbances in the wake-sleep cycle. This specialist is skilled in the analysis and interpretation of comprehensive polysomnography, and well versed in emerging research and management of a sleep laboratory
Colon and Rectal Surgery
A colon and rectal surgeon diagnoses and treats various diseases of the small intestine, colon, rectum, anal canal, and perianal area including the organs and tissues related with primary intestinal diseases (liver, urinary, and female reproductive system). This specialist treats conditions such as hemorrhoids, fissures (painful tears in the anal lining), abscesses and fistulaes (infections located around the anus and rectum). A colon and rectal surgeon diagnoses and treats problems of the intestine and colon such as cancer, polyps (precancerous growths), and inflammatory conditions.
Dermatology
A dermatologist is a physician with training and expertise in the diagnosis and medical/surgical management of diseases of the skin, hair and nails, and mucous membranes.
Subspecialties
Dermatopathology
A dermatopathologist is expert in diagnosing and monitoring diseases of the skin, including infectious, immunologic, degenerative, and neoplastic diseases. This entails the examination and interpretation of specially prepared tissue sections, cellular scrapings, and smears of skin lesions by means of light microscopy, electron microscopy, and fluorescence microscopy.
Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery
A dermatologist who specializes in Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery is expert in the management of patients with specific types of high-risk and complex skin cancers that are best suited to treatment with micrographic surgery. The procedure involves the progressive removal and examination of the cancer-containing tissue until only cancer-free tissue remains. This specialist also has expertise in reconstructive procedures to repair the surgical defects after the cancer has been removed.
Pediatric Dermatology
A pediatric dermatologist is a physician with training and expertise in the diagnosis and medical/surgical management of diseases of the skin, hair and nails, and mucous membranes of infants, children, and adolescents.
Emergency Medicine
A physician who specializes in Emergency Medicine focuses on the immediate decision making and action necessary to prevent death or any further disability both in the pre-hospital setting by directing emergency medical technicians and in the emergency department. This specialist provides immediate recognition, evaluation, care, stabilization, and disposition of a generally diversified population of adult and pediatric patients in response to acute illness and injury
Subspecialties
Anesthesiology Critical Care Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Critical Care Medicine diagnoses and treats patients with critical illnesses or injuries, particularly trauma victims and patients with multiple organ dysfunction who require care over a period of hours, days, or weeks. These physicians also coordinate patient care among the primary physician, critical care staff, and other specialists and their primary base of operation is the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital.
Emergency Medical Services
An emergency medicine physician specializing in Emergency Medical Services has special knowledge and skills for the delivery of medical care of the acutely ill or injured patient in the pre-hospital setting. This care includes the initial patient treatment, stabilization, and transportation in specially equipped ambulances and medical helicopters. The initial care for conditions such as heart attack or stroke may occur in patient homes, public places, and wilderness settings. These medical specialists perform life-saving procedures outside the hospital setting, sometimes when people are still trapped in cars or buildings.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to optimize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family
Internal Medicine–Critical Care Medicine
An emergency medicine physician trained in Critical Care Medicine has expertise in the diagnosis, treatment and support of critically ill and injured patients, particularly trauma victims, and patients with multiple organ dysfunction. This physician also coordinates patient care among the primary physician, critical care staff, and other specialists.
Medical Toxicology
Medical toxicologists are physicians who specialize in the prevention, evaluation, treatment, and monitoring of injury and illness from exposures to drugs and chemicals, as well as biological and radiological agents. These specialists care for people in clinical, academic, governmental, and public health settings, and provide poison control center leadership. Important areas of Medical Toxicology include acute drug poisoning; adverse drug events; drug abuse, addiction and withdrawal; chemicals and hazardous materials; terrorism preparedness; venomous bites and stings; and environmental and workplace exposures.
Neurocritical Care
The medical specialty of Neurocritical Care is devoted to the comprehensive multisystem care of the critically ill patient with neurological diseases and conditions.
Pain Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Pain Medicine diagnoses and treats patients experiencing problems with acute or chronic pain, or pain related to cancer, in both hospital and outpatient settings and coordinates care needs with other specialists.
Pediatric Emergency Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Pediatric Emergency Medicine has special qualifications to manage emergency treatments in acutely ill or injured infants and children.
Sports Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries related to participating in sports and/ or exercise. In addition to the study of those fields that focus on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of injuries, Sports Medicine also deals with illnesses and diseases that might have effects on health and physical performance.
Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine treats decompression illness and diving accident cases and uses hyperbaric oxygen therapy to treat such conditions as carbon monoxide poisoning, gas gangrene, non-healing wounds, tissue damage from radiation and burns, and bone infections. This specialist also serves as a consultant to other physicians in all aspects of hyperbaric chamber operations, and assesses risks and applies appropriate standards to prevent disease and disability in divers and other persons working in altered atmospheric conditions.
Family Medicine
Family physicians provide front-line health care that is accessible, high quality, comprehensive and continuous over time for people of all ages, life stages, backgrounds and conditions. They care for individuals and for entire families, from birth through the end of life, including a broad range of preventive care; healthy lifestyle counseling; mental health care; care of acute illnesses; management of chronic diseases, including patients with multi-morbidity. When needed, they also provide referral and coordination of care with other specialists.
Subspecialties
Adolescent Medicine
A family physician who specializes in Adolescent Medicine is a multidisciplinary health care specialist trained in the unique physical, psychological and social characteristics of adolescents and their health care problems and needs.
Geriatric Medicine
A family physician with special knowledge of the aging process and special skills in the diagnostic, therapeutic, preventive, and rehabilitative aspects of illness in the elderly. This specialist cares for geriatric patients in the patient’s home, the office, long-term care settings such as nursing homes, and the hospital.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
A family physician who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to optimize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family
Pain Medicine
A family physician who specializes in Pain Medicine diagnoses and treats patients experiencing problems with acute or chronic pain, or pain related to cancer, in both hospital and outpatient settings and coordinates care needs with other specialists.
Sleep Medicine
A family physician with demonstrated expertise in the diagnosis and management of clinical conditions that occur during sleep, that disturb sleep, or that are affected by disturbances in the wake-sleep cycle. This specialist is skilled in the analysis and interpretation of comprehensive polysomnography, and well versed in emerging research and management of a sleep laboratory.
Sports Medicine
A family physician who specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries related to participating in sports and/or exercise. In addition to the study of those fields that focus on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of injuries, Sports Medicine also deals with illnesses and diseases that might have effects on health and physical performance.
Internal Medicine
An internist is a personal physician who provides long-term, comprehensive care in the office and in the hospital, managing both common and complex illnesses of adolescents, adults, and the elderly. Internists are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, infections, and diseases affecting the heart, blood, kidneys, joints, and the digestive, respiratory, and vascular systems. They are also trained in the essentials of primary care internal medicine, which incorporates an understanding of disease prevention, wellness, substance abuse, mental health, and effective treatment of common problems of the eyes, ears, skin, nervous system, and reproductive organs.
Subspecialties
Adolescent Medicine
An internist who specializes in Adolescent Medicine is a multidisciplinary health care specialist trained in the unique physical, psychological, and social characteristics of adolescents, their health care problems and needs.
Adult Congenital Heart Disease
An internist or pediatrician who specializes in Adult Congenital Heart Disease has the unique knowledge, skills, and practice required of a cardiologist for evaluating and delivering high quality lifelong care for a wide range of adult patients with heart disease diagnosed at birth.
Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology
An internist who specializes in Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology has the special knowledge and skills required of cardiologists for evaluating and optimally managing patients with heart failure, particularly those with advanced heart failure, those with devices, including ventricular assist devices, and those who have undergone or are awaiting transplantation.
Cardiovascular Disease
An internist who specializes in diseases of the heart and blood vessels and manages complex cardiac conditions, such as heart attacks and life threatening, abnormal heartbeat rhythms.
Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology
A field of special interest within the subspecialty of Cardiovascular Disease, which involves intricate technical procedures to evaluate heart rhythms and determine appropriate treatment.
Critical Care Medicine
An internist trained in Critical Care Medicine has expertise in the diagnosis, treatment, and support of critically ill and injured patients, particularly trauma victims and patients with multiple organ dysfunction. This physician also coordinates patient care among the primary physician, critical care staff, and other specialists.
Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
An internist (endocrinologist) specializes in the diagnosis and management of disorders of hormones and their actions, metabolic disorders, and neoplasia of the endocrine glands. This specialist cares for patients with diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, disorders of calcium and bone, hyperlipidemia, obesity and nutritional disorders, pituitary disorders, reproductive and gonadal disorders, adrenal diseases, and endocrine hypertension.
Gastroenterology
An internist (gastroenterologist) who specializes in diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the digestive organs including the stomach, bowels, liver, and gallbladder. This specialist treats conditions such as abdominal pain, ulcers, diarrhea, cancer, and jaundice and performs complex diagnostic and therapeutic procedures using endoscopes to visualize internal organs.
Geriatric Medicine
An internist who has special knowledge of the aging process and special skills in the diagnostic, therapeutic, preventive, and rehabilitative aspects of illness in the elderly. This specialist cares for geriatric patients in the patient’s home, the office, and long-term care settings such as nursing homes and the hospital.
Hematology
An internist (hematologist) who specializes in diseases of the blood, spleen, and lymph. This specialist treats conditions such as anemia, clotting disorders, sickle cell disease, hemophilia, leukemia, and lymphoma.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
An internist who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to optimize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family
Infectious Disease
An internist who deals with infectious diseases of all types and in all organ systems. Conditions requiring selective use of antibiotics call for this special skill. This physician often diagnoses and treats AIDS patients and patients with fevers which have not been explained. Infectious disease specialists may also have expertise in preventive medicine and travel medicine.
Interventional Cardiology
An area of medicine within the subspecialty of Cardiology, which uses specialized imaging and other diagnostic techniques to evaluate blood flow and pressure in the coronary arteries and chambers of the heart, and uses technical procedures and medications to treat abnormalities that impair the function of the cardiovascular system.
Medical Oncology
An internist (medical oncologist) who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of cancer and other benign and malignant tumors. This specialist decides on and administers therapy for these malignancies, as well as consults with surgeons and radiotherapists on other treatments for cancer
Nephrology
An internist (nephrologist) who treats disorders of the kidney, high blood pressure, fluid and mineral balance, and dialysis of body wastes when the kidneys do not function. This specialist consults with surgeons about kidney transplantation.
Pulmonary Disease
An internist (pulmonologist) who treats diseases of the lungs and airways. This specialist diagnoses and treats cancer, pneumonia, pleurisy, asthma, occupational and environmental diseases, bronchitis, sleep disorders, emphysema, and other complex disorders of the lungs.
Rheumatology
An internist (rheumatologist) who treats diseases of joints, muscle, bones, and tendons. This specialist diagnoses and treats arthritis, back pain, muscle strains, common athletic injuries, and collagen diseases.
Sleep Medicine
An internist who specializes in the diagnosis and management of clinical conditions that occur during sleep, that disturb sleep, or that are affected by disturbances in the wake-sleep cycle. This specialist is skilled in the analysis and interpretation of comprehensive polysomnography, and well versed in emerging research and management of a sleep laboratory.
Sports Medicine
An internist who specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries related to participating in sports and/or exercise. In addition to the study of those fields that focus on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of injuries, Sports Medicine also deals with illnesses and diseases that might have effects on health and physical performance.
Transplant Hepatology
An internist with special knowledge and the skill required of a gastroenterologist to care for patients prior to and following hepatic transplantation that spans all phases of liver transplantation. Selection of appropriate recipients requires assessment by a team having experience in evaluating the severity and prognosis of patients with liver disease.
Medical Genetics and Genomics
Medical geneticists specialize in medicine that involves the interaction between genes and health. They are trained to evaluate, diagnose, manage, treat, and counsel individuals of all ages with hereditary disorders. This specialist uses modern cytogenetic, molecular, genomic, and biochemical genetic testing to assist in specialized diagnostic evaluations, implement needed therapeutic interventions, and provide genetic counseling and prevention through prenatal and preimplantation diagnosis. The medical geneticist plans and coordinates screening for genetic diseases involving single gene and chromosomal disorders, congenital anomalies, inborn errors of metabolism, multifactorial conditions, and common disorders with hereditary factors
Primary Specialty Certificates
Clinical Biochemical Genetics
A clinical biochemical geneticist demonstrates competence in directing and interpreting a wide range of specialized, laboratory biochemical genetic analyses relevant to the diagnosis and management of inherited metabolic disorders. The specialist acts as a consultant regarding laboratory diagnosis on a broad range of inborn errors of metabolism.
Clinical Genetics and Genomics (MD)
A clinical geneticist demonstrates competence in providing comprehensive diagnostic, management, therapeutic, and counseling services for individuals and families at risk for clinical disorders with a genetic basis. This specialist is trained to evaluate individuals of all ages for hereditary conditions.
Laboratory Genetics and Genomics
A specialist certified in Laboratory Genetics and Genomics demonstrates competence in directing and interpreting both clinical cytogenetic and molecular genetic analyses relevant to the diagnosis and management of human genetic disease. This specialist acts as a consultant in laboratory diagnoses for a broad range of molecular and chromosomal-based disorders, including both inherited and acquired conditions.
Subspecialties
Medical Biochemical Genetics
A medical biochemical geneticist demonstrates competence in the diagnosis, medical treatment, and management of individuals with inherited metabolic conditions presenting clinically from infancy through adulthood, including via newborn screening. The subspecialist provides direct care and consultative care for individuals of all ages who are diagnosed with inborn errors of metabolism.
Molecular Genetic Pathology
​A molecular genetic pathologist is expert in the principles, theory, and technologies of molecular biology and molecular genetics. This expertise is used to make or confirm diagnoses of Mendelian genetic disorders, of human development, infectious diseases, and malignancies and to assess the natural history of those disorders. A molecular genetic pathologist provides information about gene structure, function, and alteration and applies laboratory techniques for diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for individuals with related disorders.
Neurological Surgery
Neurological Surgery constitutes a medical discipline and surgical specialty that provides care for adult and pediatric patients in the treatment of pain or pathological processes that may modify the function or activity of the central nervous system (e.g., brain, hypophysis, and spinal cord), the peripheral nervous system (e.g., cranial, spinal, and peripheral nerves), the autonomic nervous system, the supporting structures of these systems (e.g., meninges, skull and skull base, and vertebral column), and their vascular supply (e.g., intracranial, extracranial, and spinal vasculature).
Subspecialties
Neurology
A neurologist specializes in the evaluation and treatment of all types of disease or impaired function of the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, muscles, and autonomic nervous system, as well as the blood vessels that relate to these structures. The disorders include: stroke, brain and spinal tumors, muscular dystrophy, headache and other pain, meningitis, encephalitis, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders, multiple sclerosis, and effects of systemic diseases, like high blood pressure and diabetes, on the nervous system.
Primary Specialty Certificate
Neurology with Special Qualification in Child Neurology
Child neurologists diagnose and treat similar disorders in infants, children, and adolescents. They also have special competence in genetic and metabolic problems, malformation, retardation, and other neurodevelopmental problems of childhood.
PROFESSIONS
Can't decide? Check out more than 135 specialties and subspecialties.
Allergy and Immunology
An allergist-immunologist diagnoses and manages disorders involving immune system conditions such as asthma, anaphylaxis, rhinitis, and eczema as well as adverse reactions to drugs, foods, and insect stings; also immune deficiency diseases and problems related to autoimmune disease, organ transplantation, or malignancies of the immune system
Anesthesiology
An anesthesiologist is a physician who provides anesthesia for patients undergoing surgical, obstetric, diagnostic, or therapeutic procedures while monitoring the patient’s condition and supporting vital organ functions. The anesthesiologist also diagnoses and treats acute, chronic, and/or cancer pain as well as provide resuscitation and medical management for patients with critical illnesses and severe injuries
Subspecialties
Critical Care Medicine
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Critical Care Medicine diagnoses and treats patients with critical illnesses or injuries, particularly trauma victims and patients with multiple organ dysfunction who require care over a period of hours, days, or weeks. These physicians also coordinate patient care among the primary physician, critical care staff, and other specialists and their primary base of operation is the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to maximize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family.
Neurocritical Care
The medical specialty of Neurocritical Care is devoted to the comprehensive multisystem care of the critically ill patient with neurological diseases and conditions.
Pain Medicine
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Pain Medicine diagnoses and treats patients experiencing problems with acute or chronic pain, or pain related to cancer, in both hospital and outpatient settings and coordinates care needs with other specialists.
Pediatric Anesthesiology
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Pediatric Anesthesiology provides anesthesia for neonates, infants, children, and adolescents undergoing surgical, diagnostic, or therapeutic procedures as well as appropriate pre- and post-operative care, advanced life support, and acute pain management.
Sleep Medicine
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Sleep Medicine has expertise in the diagnosis and management of clinical conditions that occur during sleep, that disturb sleep, or that are affected by disturbances in the wake-sleep cycle. This specialist is skilled in the analysis and interpretation of comprehensive polysomnography, and well versed in emerging research and management of a sleep laboratory
Colon and Rectal Surgery
A colon and rectal surgeon diagnoses and treats various diseases of the small intestine, colon, rectum, anal canal, and perianal area including the organs and tissues related with primary intestinal diseases (liver, urinary, and female reproductive system). This specialist treats conditions such as hemorrhoids, fissures (painful tears in the anal lining), abscesses and fistulaes (infections located around the anus and rectum). A colon and rectal surgeon diagnoses and treats problems of the intestine and colon such as cancer, polyps (precancerous growths), and inflammatory conditions.
Dermatology
A dermatologist is a physician with training and expertise in the diagnosis and medical/surgical management of diseases of the skin, hair and nails, and mucous membranes.
Subspecialties
Dermatopathology
A dermatopathologist is expert in diagnosing and monitoring diseases of the skin, including infectious, immunologic, degenerative, and neoplastic diseases. This entails the examination and interpretation of specially prepared tissue sections, cellular scrapings, and smears of skin lesions by means of light microscopy, electron microscopy, and fluorescence microscopy.
Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery
A dermatologist who specializes in Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery is expert in the management of patients with specific types of high-risk and complex skin cancers that are best suited to treatment with micrographic surgery. The procedure involves the progressive removal and examination of the cancer-containing tissue until only cancer-free tissue remains. This specialist also has expertise in reconstructive procedures to repair the surgical defects after the cancer has been removed.
Pediatric Dermatology
A pediatric dermatologist is a physician with training and expertise in the diagnosis and medical/surgical management of diseases of the skin, hair and nails, and mucous membranes of infants, children, and adolescents.
Emergency Medicine
A physician who specializes in Emergency Medicine focuses on the immediate decision making and action necessary to prevent death or any further disability both in the pre-hospital setting by directing emergency medical technicians and in the emergency department. This specialist provides immediate recognition, evaluation, care, stabilization, and disposition of a generally diversified population of adult and pediatric patients in response to acute illness and injury
Subspecialties
Anesthesiology Critical Care Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Critical Care Medicine diagnoses and treats patients with critical illnesses or injuries, particularly trauma victims and patients with multiple organ dysfunction who require care over a period of hours, days, or weeks. These physicians also coordinate patient care among the primary physician, critical care staff, and other specialists and their primary base of operation is the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital.
Emergency Medical Services
An emergency medicine physician specializing in Emergency Medical Services has special knowledge and skills for the delivery of medical care of the acutely ill or injured patient in the pre-hospital setting. This care includes the initial patient treatment, stabilization, and transportation in specially equipped ambulances and medical helicopters. The initial care for conditions such as heart attack or stroke may occur in patient homes, public places, and wilderness settings. These medical specialists perform life-saving procedures outside the hospital setting, sometimes when people are still trapped in cars or buildings.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to optimize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family
Internal Medicine–Critical Care Medicine
An emergency medicine physician trained in Critical Care Medicine has expertise in the diagnosis, treatment and support of critically ill and injured patients, particularly trauma victims, and patients with multiple organ dysfunction. This physician also coordinates patient care among the primary physician, critical care staff, and other specialists.
Medical Toxicology
Medical toxicologists are physicians who specialize in the prevention, evaluation, treatment, and monitoring of injury and illness from exposures to drugs and chemicals, as well as biological and radiological agents. These specialists care for people in clinical, academic, governmental, and public health settings, and provide poison control center leadership. Important areas of Medical Toxicology include acute drug poisoning; adverse drug events; drug abuse, addiction and withdrawal; chemicals and hazardous materials; terrorism preparedness; venomous bites and stings; and environmental and workplace exposures.
Neurocritical Care
The medical specialty of Neurocritical Care is devoted to the comprehensive multisystem care of the critically ill patient with neurological diseases and conditions.
Pain Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Pain Medicine diagnoses and treats patients experiencing problems with acute or chronic pain, or pain related to cancer, in both hospital and outpatient settings and coordinates care needs with other specialists.
Pediatric Emergency Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Pediatric Emergency Medicine has special qualifications to manage emergency treatments in acutely ill or injured infants and children.
Sports Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries related to participating in sports and/ or exercise. In addition to the study of those fields that focus on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of injuries, Sports Medicine also deals with illnesses and diseases that might have effects on health and physical performance.
Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine treats decompression illness and diving accident cases and uses hyperbaric oxygen therapy to treat such conditions as carbon monoxide poisoning, gas gangrene, non-healing wounds, tissue damage from radiation and burns, and bone infections. This specialist also serves as a consultant to other physicians in all aspects of hyperbaric chamber operations, and assesses risks and applies appropriate standards to prevent disease and disability in divers and other persons working in altered atmospheric conditions.
Family Medicine
Family physicians provide front-line health care that is accessible, high quality, comprehensive and continuous over time for people of all ages, life stages, backgrounds and conditions. They care for individuals and for entire families, from birth through the end of life, including a broad range of preventive care; healthy lifestyle counseling; mental health care; care of acute illnesses; management of chronic diseases, including patients with multi-morbidity. When needed, they also provide referral and coordination of care with other specialists.
Subspecialties
Adolescent Medicine
A family physician who specializes in Adolescent Medicine is a multidisciplinary health care specialist trained in the unique physical, psychological and social characteristics of adolescents and their health care problems and needs.
Geriatric Medicine
A family physician with special knowledge of the aging process and special skills in the diagnostic, therapeutic, preventive, and rehabilitative aspects of illness in the elderly. This specialist cares for geriatric patients in the patient’s home, the office, long-term care settings such as nursing homes, and the hospital.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
A family physician who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to optimize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family
Pain Medicine
A family physician who specializes in Pain Medicine diagnoses and treats patients experiencing problems with acute or chronic pain, or pain related to cancer, in both hospital and outpatient settings and coordinates care needs with other specialists.
Sleep Medicine
A family physician with demonstrated expertise in the diagnosis and management of clinical conditions that occur during sleep, that disturb sleep, or that are affected by disturbances in the wake-sleep cycle. This specialist is skilled in the analysis and interpretation of comprehensive polysomnography, and well versed in emerging research and management of a sleep laboratory.
Sports Medicine
A family physician who specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries related to participating in sports and/or exercise. In addition to the study of those fields that focus on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of injuries, Sports Medicine also deals with illnesses and diseases that might have effects on health and physical performance.
Internal Medicine
An internist is a personal physician who provides long-term, comprehensive care in the office and in the hospital, managing both common and complex illnesses of adolescents, adults, and the elderly. Internists are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, infections, and diseases affecting the heart, blood, kidneys, joints, and the digestive, respiratory, and vascular systems. They are also trained in the essentials of primary care internal medicine, which incorporates an understanding of disease prevention, wellness, substance abuse, mental health, and effective treatment of common problems of the eyes, ears, skin, nervous system, and reproductive organs.
Subspecialties
Adolescent Medicine
An internist who specializes in Adolescent Medicine is a multidisciplinary health care specialist trained in the unique physical, psychological, and social characteristics of adolescents, their health care problems and needs.
Adult Congenital Heart Disease
An internist or pediatrician who specializes in Adult Congenital Heart Disease has the unique knowledge, skills, and practice required of a cardiologist for evaluating and delivering high quality lifelong care for a wide range of adult patients with heart disease diagnosed at birth.
Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology
An internist who specializes in Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology has the special knowledge and skills required of cardiologists for evaluating and optimally managing patients with heart failure, particularly those with advanced heart failure, those with devices, including ventricular assist devices, and those who have undergone or are awaiting transplantation.
Cardiovascular Disease
An internist who specializes in diseases of the heart and blood vessels and manages complex cardiac conditions, such as heart attacks and life threatening, abnormal heartbeat rhythms.
Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology
A field of special interest within the subspecialty of Cardiovascular Disease, which involves intricate technical procedures to evaluate heart rhythms and determine appropriate treatment.
Critical Care Medicine
An internist trained in Critical Care Medicine has expertise in the diagnosis, treatment, and support of critically ill and injured patients, particularly trauma victims and patients with multiple organ dysfunction. This physician also coordinates patient care among the primary physician, critical care staff, and other specialists.
Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
An internist (endocrinologist) specializes in the diagnosis and management of disorders of hormones and their actions, metabolic disorders, and neoplasia of the endocrine glands. This specialist cares for patients with diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, disorders of calcium and bone, hyperlipidemia, obesity and nutritional disorders, pituitary disorders, reproductive and gonadal disorders, adrenal diseases, and endocrine hypertension.
Gastroenterology
An internist (gastroenterologist) who specializes in diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the digestive organs including the stomach, bowels, liver, and gallbladder. This specialist treats conditions such as abdominal pain, ulcers, diarrhea, cancer, and jaundice and performs complex diagnostic and therapeutic procedures using endoscopes to visualize internal organs.
Geriatric Medicine
An internist who has special knowledge of the aging process and special skills in the diagnostic, therapeutic, preventive, and rehabilitative aspects of illness in the elderly. This specialist cares for geriatric patients in the patient’s home, the office, and long-term care settings such as nursing homes and the hospital.
Hematology
An internist (hematologist) who specializes in diseases of the blood, spleen, and lymph. This specialist treats conditions such as anemia, clotting disorders, sickle cell disease, hemophilia, leukemia, and lymphoma.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
An internist who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to optimize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family
Infectious Disease
An internist who deals with infectious diseases of all types and in all organ systems. Conditions requiring selective use of antibiotics call for this special skill. This physician often diagnoses and treats AIDS patients and patients with fevers which have not been explained. Infectious disease specialists may also have expertise in preventive medicine and travel medicine.
Interventional Cardiology
An area of medicine within the subspecialty of Cardiology, which uses specialized imaging and other diagnostic techniques to evaluate blood flow and pressure in the coronary arteries and chambers of the heart, and uses technical procedures and medications to treat abnormalities that impair the function of the cardiovascular system.
Medical Oncology
An internist (medical oncologist) who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of cancer and other benign and malignant tumors. This specialist decides on and administers therapy for these malignancies, as well as consults with surgeons and radiotherapists on other treatments for cancer
Nephrology
An internist (nephrologist) who treats disorders of the kidney, high blood pressure, fluid and mineral balance, and dialysis of body wastes when the kidneys do not function. This specialist consults with surgeons about kidney transplantation.
Pulmonary Disease
An internist (pulmonologist) who treats diseases of the lungs and airways. This specialist diagnoses and treats cancer, pneumonia, pleurisy, asthma, occupational and environmental diseases, bronchitis, sleep disorders, emphysema, and other complex disorders of the lungs.
Rheumatology
An internist (rheumatologist) who treats diseases of joints, muscle, bones, and tendons. This specialist diagnoses and treats arthritis, back pain, muscle strains, common athletic injuries, and collagen diseases.
Sleep Medicine
An internist who specializes in the diagnosis and management of clinical conditions that occur during sleep, that disturb sleep, or that are affected by disturbances in the wake-sleep cycle. This specialist is skilled in the analysis and interpretation of comprehensive polysomnography, and well versed in emerging research and management of a sleep laboratory.
Sports Medicine
An internist who specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries related to participating in sports and/or exercise. In addition to the study of those fields that focus on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of injuries, Sports Medicine also deals with illnesses and diseases that might have effects on health and physical performance.
Transplant Hepatology
An internist with special knowledge and the skill required of a gastroenterologist to care for patients prior to and following hepatic transplantation that spans all phases of liver transplantation. Selection of appropriate recipients requires assessment by a team having experience in evaluating the severity and prognosis of patients with liver disease.
Medical Genetics and Genomics
Medical geneticists specialize in medicine that involves the interaction between genes and health. They are trained to evaluate, diagnose, manage, treat, and counsel individuals of all ages with hereditary disorders. This specialist uses modern cytogenetic, molecular, genomic, and biochemical genetic testing to assist in specialized diagnostic evaluations, implement needed therapeutic interventions, and provide genetic counseling and prevention through prenatal and preimplantation diagnosis. The medical geneticist plans and coordinates screening for genetic diseases involving single gene and chromosomal disorders, congenital anomalies, inborn errors of metabolism, multifactorial conditions, and common disorders with hereditary factors
Primary Specialty Certificates
Clinical Biochemical Genetics
A clinical biochemical geneticist demonstrates competence in directing and interpreting a wide range of specialized, laboratory biochemical genetic analyses relevant to the diagnosis and management of inherited metabolic disorders. The specialist acts as a consultant regarding laboratory diagnosis on a broad range of inborn errors of metabolism.
Clinical Genetics and Genomics (MD)
A clinical geneticist demonstrates competence in providing comprehensive diagnostic, management, therapeutic, and counseling services for individuals and families at risk for clinical disorders with a genetic basis. This specialist is trained to evaluate individuals of all ages for hereditary conditions.
Laboratory Genetics and Genomics
A specialist certified in Laboratory Genetics and Genomics demonstrates competence in directing and interpreting both clinical cytogenetic and molecular genetic analyses relevant to the diagnosis and management of human genetic disease. This specialist acts as a consultant in laboratory diagnoses for a broad range of molecular and chromosomal-based disorders, including both inherited and acquired conditions.
Subspecialties
Medical Biochemical Genetics
A medical biochemical geneticist demonstrates competence in the diagnosis, medical treatment, and management of individuals with inherited metabolic conditions presenting clinically from infancy through adulthood, including via newborn screening. The subspecialist provides direct care and consultative care for individuals of all ages who are diagnosed with inborn errors of metabolism.
Molecular Genetic Pathology
​A molecular genetic pathologist is expert in the principles, theory, and technologies of molecular biology and molecular genetics. This expertise is used to make or confirm diagnoses of Mendelian genetic disorders, of human development, infectious diseases, and malignancies and to assess the natural history of those disorders. A molecular genetic pathologist provides information about gene structure, function, and alteration and applies laboratory techniques for diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for individuals with related disorders.
Neurological Surgery
Neurological Surgery constitutes a medical discipline and surgical specialty that provides care for adult and pediatric patients in the treatment of pain or pathological processes that may modify the function or activity of the central nervous system (e.g., brain, hypophysis, and spinal cord), the peripheral nervous system (e.g., cranial, spinal, and peripheral nerves), the autonomic nervous system, the supporting structures of these systems (e.g., meninges, skull and skull base, and vertebral column), and their vascular supply (e.g., intracranial, extracranial, and spinal vasculature).
Subspecialties
Neurology
A neurologist specializes in the evaluation and treatment of all types of disease or impaired function of the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, muscles, and autonomic nervous system, as well as the blood vessels that relate to these structures. The disorders include: stroke, brain and spinal tumors, muscular dystrophy, headache and other pain, meningitis, encephalitis, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders, multiple sclerosis, and effects of systemic diseases, like high blood pressure and diabetes, on the nervous system.
Primary Specialty Certificate
Neurology with Special Qualification in Child Neurology
Child neurologists diagnose and treat similar disorders in infants, children, and adolescents. They also have special competence in genetic and metabolic problems, malformation, retardation, and other neurodevelopmental problems of childhood.
Subspecialties
Brain Injury Medicine
Brain Injury Medicine is a subspecialty focused on the prevention of brain injury, as well as the evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of individuals with acquired brain injury. These physicians provide a high level of care for patients with brain injury and their families in hospital and post-acute settings, and over the continuum of care to facilitate the process of recovery and improve medical and functional outcomes.
Clinical Neurophysiology
A neurologist, child neurologist, or psychiatrist who focuses on the evaluation and treatment of central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous system disorders using a combination of clinical evaluation and electrophysiologic testing such as electroencephalography (EEG), electromyography (EMG), and nerve conduction studies (NCS), among others.
Epilepsy
A neurologist or child neurologist who focuses on the evaluation and treatment of adults and children with recurrent seizure activity and seizure disorders. Specialists in Epilepsy (epileptologists) possess specialized knowledge in the science, clinical evaluation, and management of these disorders.
​Hospice and Palliative Medicine
A neurologist, child neurologist, or psychiatrist who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to optimize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family.
Neurocritical Care
The medical specialty of Neurocritical Care is devoted to the comprehensive multisystem care of the critically ill patient with neurological diseases and conditions.
Neurodevelopmental Disabilities
A child neurologist or pediatrician who focuses on the evaluation and treatment of chronic conditions that affect the developing and mature nervous system such as cerebral palsy, mental retardation, and chronic behavioral syndromes or neurologic conditions.
Neuromuscular Medicine
A neurologist, child neurologist, or physiatrist who focuses on the evaluation and treatment of disorders of nerve, muscle or neuromuscular junction, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), peripheral neuropathies (e.g., diabetic), various muscular dystrophies, congenital and acquired myopathies, inflammatory myopathies (e.g., polymyositis), and neuromuscular transmission disorders (e.g., myasthenia gravis).
Pain Medicine
A neurologist or child neurologist who specializes in Pain Medicine diagnoses and treats patients experiencing problems with acute or chronic pain, or pain related to cancer, in both hospital and outpatient settings and coordinates care needs with other specialists.
Sleep Medicine
A neurologist or child neurologist who specializes in Pain Medicine diagnoses and treats patients experiencing problems with acute or chronic pain, or pain related to cancer, in both hospital and outpatient settings and coordinates care needs with other specialists.A neurologist or child neurologist with demonstrated expertise in the diagnosis and management of clinical conditions that occur during sleep, that disturb sleep, or that are affected by disturbances in the wakesleep cycle. This specialist is skilled in the analysis and interpretation of comprehensive polysomnography, and well versed in emerging research and management of a sleep laboratory
Vascular Neurology
A neurologist or child neurologist who focuses on the evaluation and treatment of vascular events affecting the brain or spinal cord, such as ischemic stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, spinal cord ischemia, and spinal cord hemorrhage.
Nuclear Medicine
​A specialist in Nuclear Medicine uses molecular tracers (usually labeled with radioactive atoms) for diagnosis and therapy. These labeled tracers are most often used to produce images that provide information about organ function, as well as cellular function on a molecular level (molecular imaging). Molecular imaging can be combined with anatomical imaging by using specialized cameras. The most common diagnostic applications of Nuclear Medicine include the early detection of coronary artery disease, cancer diagnosis and staging, and the evaluation of the effect of cancer treatment. The fusion of molecular and anatomical information increases diagnostic accuracy and changes medical management. Radioactive materials are also used to treat a variety of health problems, including thyroid disorders and cancer
PROFESSIONS
Can't decide? Check out more than 135 specialties and subspecialties.
Allergy and Immunology
An allergist-immunologist diagnoses and manages disorders involving immune system conditions such as asthma, anaphylaxis, rhinitis, and eczema as well as adverse reactions to drugs, foods, and insect stings; also immune deficiency diseases and problems related to autoimmune disease, organ transplantation, or malignancies of the immune system
Anesthesiology
An anesthesiologist is a physician who provides anesthesia for patients undergoing surgical, obstetric, diagnostic, or therapeutic procedures while monitoring the patient’s condition and supporting vital organ functions. The anesthesiologist also diagnoses and treats acute, chronic, and/or cancer pain as well as provide resuscitation and medical management for patients with critical illnesses and severe injuries
Subspecialties
Critical Care Medicine
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Critical Care Medicine diagnoses and treats patients with critical illnesses or injuries, particularly trauma victims and patients with multiple organ dysfunction who require care over a period of hours, days, or weeks. These physicians also coordinate patient care among the primary physician, critical care staff, and other specialists and their primary base of operation is the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to maximize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family.
Neurocritical Care
The medical specialty of Neurocritical Care is devoted to the comprehensive multisystem care of the critically ill patient with neurological diseases and conditions.
Pain Medicine
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Pain Medicine diagnoses and treats patients experiencing problems with acute or chronic pain, or pain related to cancer, in both hospital and outpatient settings and coordinates care needs with other specialists.
Pediatric Anesthesiology
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Pediatric Anesthesiology provides anesthesia for neonates, infants, children, and adolescents undergoing surgical, diagnostic, or therapeutic procedures as well as appropriate pre- and post-operative care, advanced life support, and acute pain management.
Sleep Medicine
An anesthesiologist who specializes in Sleep Medicine has expertise in the diagnosis and management of clinical conditions that occur during sleep, that disturb sleep, or that are affected by disturbances in the wake-sleep cycle. This specialist is skilled in the analysis and interpretation of comprehensive polysomnography, and well versed in emerging research and management of a sleep laboratory
Colon and Rectal Surgery
A colon and rectal surgeon diagnoses and treats various diseases of the small intestine, colon, rectum, anal canal, and perianal area including the organs and tissues related with primary intestinal diseases (liver, urinary, and female reproductive system). This specialist treats conditions such as hemorrhoids, fissures (painful tears in the anal lining), abscesses and fistulaes (infections located around the anus and rectum). A colon and rectal surgeon diagnoses and treats problems of the intestine and colon such as cancer, polyps (precancerous growths), and inflammatory conditions.
Dermatology
A dermatologist is a physician with training and expertise in the diagnosis and medical/surgical management of diseases of the skin, hair and nails, and mucous membranes.
Subspecialties
Dermatopathology
A dermatopathologist is expert in diagnosing and monitoring diseases of the skin, including infectious, immunologic, degenerative, and neoplastic diseases. This entails the examination and interpretation of specially prepared tissue sections, cellular scrapings, and smears of skin lesions by means of light microscopy, electron microscopy, and fluorescence microscopy.
Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery
A dermatologist who specializes in Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery is expert in the management of patients with specific types of high-risk and complex skin cancers that are best suited to treatment with micrographic surgery. The procedure involves the progressive removal and examination of the cancer-containing tissue until only cancer-free tissue remains. This specialist also has expertise in reconstructive procedures to repair the surgical defects after the cancer has been removed.
Pediatric Dermatology
A pediatric dermatologist is a physician with training and expertise in the diagnosis and medical/surgical management of diseases of the skin, hair and nails, and mucous membranes of infants, children, and adolescents.
Emergency Medicine
A physician who specializes in Emergency Medicine focuses on the immediate decision making and action necessary to prevent death or any further disability both in the pre-hospital setting by directing emergency medical technicians and in the emergency department. This specialist provides immediate recognition, evaluation, care, stabilization, and disposition of a generally diversified population of adult and pediatric patients in response to acute illness and injury
Subspecialties
Anesthesiology Critical Care Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Critical Care Medicine diagnoses and treats patients with critical illnesses or injuries, particularly trauma victims and patients with multiple organ dysfunction who require care over a period of hours, days, or weeks. These physicians also coordinate patient care among the primary physician, critical care staff, and other specialists and their primary base of operation is the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital.
Emergency Medical Services
An emergency medicine physician specializing in Emergency Medical Services has special knowledge and skills for the delivery of medical care of the acutely ill or injured patient in the pre-hospital setting. This care includes the initial patient treatment, stabilization, and transportation in specially equipped ambulances and medical helicopters. The initial care for conditions such as heart attack or stroke may occur in patient homes, public places, and wilderness settings. These medical specialists perform life-saving procedures outside the hospital setting, sometimes when people are still trapped in cars or buildings.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to optimize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family
Internal Medicine–Critical Care Medicine
An emergency medicine physician trained in Critical Care Medicine has expertise in the diagnosis, treatment and support of critically ill and injured patients, particularly trauma victims, and patients with multiple organ dysfunction. This physician also coordinates patient care among the primary physician, critical care staff, and other specialists.
Medical Toxicology
Medical toxicologists are physicians who specialize in the prevention, evaluation, treatment, and monitoring of injury and illness from exposures to drugs and chemicals, as well as biological and radiological agents. These specialists care for people in clinical, academic, governmental, and public health settings, and provide poison control center leadership. Important areas of Medical Toxicology include acute drug poisoning; adverse drug events; drug abuse, addiction and withdrawal; chemicals and hazardous materials; terrorism preparedness; venomous bites and stings; and environmental and workplace exposures.
Neurocritical Care
The medical specialty of Neurocritical Care is devoted to the comprehensive multisystem care of the critically ill patient with neurological diseases and conditions.
Pain Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Pain Medicine diagnoses and treats patients experiencing problems with acute or chronic pain, or pain related to cancer, in both hospital and outpatient settings and coordinates care needs with other specialists.
Pediatric Emergency Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Pediatric Emergency Medicine has special qualifications to manage emergency treatments in acutely ill or injured infants and children.
Sports Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries related to participating in sports and/ or exercise. In addition to the study of those fields that focus on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of injuries, Sports Medicine also deals with illnesses and diseases that might have effects on health and physical performance.
Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine
An emergency medicine physician who specializes in Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine treats decompression illness and diving accident cases and uses hyperbaric oxygen therapy to treat such conditions as carbon monoxide poisoning, gas gangrene, non-healing wounds, tissue damage from radiation and burns, and bone infections. This specialist also serves as a consultant to other physicians in all aspects of hyperbaric chamber operations, and assesses risks and applies appropriate standards to prevent disease and disability in divers and other persons working in altered atmospheric conditions.
Family Medicine
Family physicians provide front-line health care that is accessible, high quality, comprehensive and continuous over time for people of all ages, life stages, backgrounds and conditions. They care for individuals and for entire families, from birth through the end of life, including a broad range of preventive care; healthy lifestyle counseling; mental health care; care of acute illnesses; management of chronic diseases, including patients with multi-morbidity. When needed, they also provide referral and coordination of care with other specialists.
Subspecialties
Adolescent Medicine
A family physician who specializes in Adolescent Medicine is a multidisciplinary health care specialist trained in the unique physical, psychological and social characteristics of adolescents and their health care problems and needs.
Geriatric Medicine
A family physician with special knowledge of the aging process and special skills in the diagnostic, therapeutic, preventive, and rehabilitative aspects of illness in the elderly. This specialist cares for geriatric patients in the patient’s home, the office, long-term care settings such as nursing homes, and the hospital.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
A family physician who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to optimize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family
Pain Medicine
A family physician who specializes in Pain Medicine diagnoses and treats patients experiencing problems with acute or chronic pain, or pain related to cancer, in both hospital and outpatient settings and coordinates care needs with other specialists.
Sleep Medicine
A family physician with demonstrated expertise in the diagnosis and management of clinical conditions that occur during sleep, that disturb sleep, or that are affected by disturbances in the wake-sleep cycle. This specialist is skilled in the analysis and interpretation of comprehensive polysomnography, and well versed in emerging research and management of a sleep laboratory.
Sports Medicine
A family physician who specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries related to participating in sports and/or exercise. In addition to the study of those fields that focus on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of injuries, Sports Medicine also deals with illnesses and diseases that might have effects on health and physical performance.
Internal Medicine
An internist is a personal physician who provides long-term, comprehensive care in the office and in the hospital, managing both common and complex illnesses of adolescents, adults, and the elderly. Internists are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, infections, and diseases affecting the heart, blood, kidneys, joints, and the digestive, respiratory, and vascular systems. They are also trained in the essentials of primary care internal medicine, which incorporates an understanding of disease prevention, wellness, substance abuse, mental health, and effective treatment of common problems of the eyes, ears, skin, nervous system, and reproductive organs.
Subspecialties
Adolescent Medicine
An internist who specializes in Adolescent Medicine is a multidisciplinary health care specialist trained in the unique physical, psychological, and social characteristics of adolescents, their health care problems and needs.
Adult Congenital Heart Disease
An internist or pediatrician who specializes in Adult Congenital Heart Disease has the unique knowledge, skills, and practice required of a cardiologist for evaluating and delivering high quality lifelong care for a wide range of adult patients with heart disease diagnosed at birth.
Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology
An internist who specializes in Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology has the special knowledge and skills required of cardiologists for evaluating and optimally managing patients with heart failure, particularly those with advanced heart failure, those with devices, including ventricular assist devices, and those who have undergone or are awaiting transplantation.
Cardiovascular Disease
An internist who specializes in diseases of the heart and blood vessels and manages complex cardiac conditions, such as heart attacks and life threatening, abnormal heartbeat rhythms.
Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology
A field of special interest within the subspecialty of Cardiovascular Disease, which involves intricate technical procedures to evaluate heart rhythms and determine appropriate treatment.
Critical Care Medicine
An internist trained in Critical Care Medicine has expertise in the diagnosis, treatment, and support of critically ill and injured patients, particularly trauma victims and patients with multiple organ dysfunction. This physician also coordinates patient care among the primary physician, critical care staff, and other specialists.
Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
An internist (endocrinologist) specializes in the diagnosis and management of disorders of hormones and their actions, metabolic disorders, and neoplasia of the endocrine glands. This specialist cares for patients with diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, disorders of calcium and bone, hyperlipidemia, obesity and nutritional disorders, pituitary disorders, reproductive and gonadal disorders, adrenal diseases, and endocrine hypertension.
Gastroenterology
An internist (gastroenterologist) who specializes in diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the digestive organs including the stomach, bowels, liver, and gallbladder. This specialist treats conditions such as abdominal pain, ulcers, diarrhea, cancer, and jaundice and performs complex diagnostic and therapeutic procedures using endoscopes to visualize internal organs.
Geriatric Medicine
An internist who has special knowledge of the aging process and special skills in the diagnostic, therapeutic, preventive, and rehabilitative aspects of illness in the elderly. This specialist cares for geriatric patients in the patient’s home, the office, and long-term care settings such as nursing homes and the hospital.
Hematology
An internist (hematologist) who specializes in diseases of the blood, spleen, and lymph. This specialist treats conditions such as anemia, clotting disorders, sickle cell disease, hemophilia, leukemia, and lymphoma.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
An internist who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to optimize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family
Infectious Disease
An internist who deals with infectious diseases of all types and in all organ systems. Conditions requiring selective use of antibiotics call for this special skill. This physician often diagnoses and treats AIDS patients and patients with fevers which have not been explained. Infectious disease specialists may also have expertise in preventive medicine and travel medicine.
Interventional Cardiology
An area of medicine within the subspecialty of Cardiology, which uses specialized imaging and other diagnostic techniques to evaluate blood flow and pressure in the coronary arteries and chambers of the heart, and uses technical procedures and medications to treat abnormalities that impair the function of the cardiovascular system.
Medical Oncology
An internist (medical oncologist) who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of cancer and other benign and malignant tumors. This specialist decides on and administers therapy for these malignancies, as well as consults with surgeons and radiotherapists on other treatments for cancer
Nephrology
An internist (nephrologist) who treats disorders of the kidney, high blood pressure, fluid and mineral balance, and dialysis of body wastes when the kidneys do not function. This specialist consults with surgeons about kidney transplantation.
Pulmonary Disease
An internist (pulmonologist) who treats diseases of the lungs and airways. This specialist diagnoses and treats cancer, pneumonia, pleurisy, asthma, occupational and environmental diseases, bronchitis, sleep disorders, emphysema, and other complex disorders of the lungs.
Rheumatology
An internist (rheumatologist) who treats diseases of joints, muscle, bones, and tendons. This specialist diagnoses and treats arthritis, back pain, muscle strains, common athletic injuries, and collagen diseases.
Sleep Medicine
An internist who specializes in the diagnosis and management of clinical conditions that occur during sleep, that disturb sleep, or that are affected by disturbances in the wake-sleep cycle. This specialist is skilled in the analysis and interpretation of comprehensive polysomnography, and well versed in emerging research and management of a sleep laboratory.
Sports Medicine
An internist who specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries related to participating in sports and/or exercise. In addition to the study of those fields that focus on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of injuries, Sports Medicine also deals with illnesses and diseases that might have effects on health and physical performance.
Transplant Hepatology
An internist with special knowledge and the skill required of a gastroenterologist to care for patients prior to and following hepatic transplantation that spans all phases of liver transplantation. Selection of appropriate recipients requires assessment by a team having experience in evaluating the severity and prognosis of patients with liver disease.
Medical Genetics and Genomics
Medical geneticists specialize in medicine that involves the interaction between genes and health. They are trained to evaluate, diagnose, manage, treat, and counsel individuals of all ages with hereditary disorders. This specialist uses modern cytogenetic, molecular, genomic, and biochemical genetic testing to assist in specialized diagnostic evaluations, implement needed therapeutic interventions, and provide genetic counseling and prevention through prenatal and preimplantation diagnosis. The medical geneticist plans and coordinates screening for genetic diseases involving single gene and chromosomal disorders, congenital anomalies, inborn errors of metabolism, multifactorial conditions, and common disorders with hereditary factors
Primary Specialty Certificates
Clinical Biochemical Genetics
A clinical biochemical geneticist demonstrates competence in directing and interpreting a wide range of specialized, laboratory biochemical genetic analyses relevant to the diagnosis and management of inherited metabolic disorders. The specialist acts as a consultant regarding laboratory diagnosis on a broad range of inborn errors of metabolism.
Clinical Genetics and Genomics (MD)
A clinical geneticist demonstrates competence in providing comprehensive diagnostic, management, therapeutic, and counseling services for individuals and families at risk for clinical disorders with a genetic basis. This specialist is trained to evaluate individuals of all ages for hereditary conditions.
Laboratory Genetics and Genomics
A specialist certified in Laboratory Genetics and Genomics demonstrates competence in directing and interpreting both clinical cytogenetic and molecular genetic analyses relevant to the diagnosis and management of human genetic disease. This specialist acts as a consultant in laboratory diagnoses for a broad range of molecular and chromosomal-based disorders, including both inherited and acquired conditions.
Subspecialties
Medical Biochemical Genetics
A medical biochemical geneticist demonstrates competence in the diagnosis, medical treatment, and management of individuals with inherited metabolic conditions presenting clinically from infancy through adulthood, including via newborn screening. The subspecialist provides direct care and consultative care for individuals of all ages who are diagnosed with inborn errors of metabolism.
Molecular Genetic Pathology
​A molecular genetic pathologist is expert in the principles, theory, and technologies of molecular biology and molecular genetics. This expertise is used to make or confirm diagnoses of Mendelian genetic disorders, of human development, infectious diseases, and malignancies and to assess the natural history of those disorders. A molecular genetic pathologist provides information about gene structure, function, and alteration and applies laboratory techniques for diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for individuals with related disorders.
Neurological Surgery
Neurological Surgery constitutes a medical discipline and surgical specialty that provides care for adult and pediatric patients in the treatment of pain or pathological processes that may modify the function or activity of the central nervous system (e.g., brain, hypophysis, and spinal cord), the peripheral nervous system (e.g., cranial, spinal, and peripheral nerves), the autonomic nervous system, the supporting structures of these systems (e.g., meninges, skull and skull base, and vertebral column), and their vascular supply (e.g., intracranial, extracranial, and spinal vasculature).
Subspecialties
Neurology
A neurologist specializes in the evaluation and treatment of all types of disease or impaired function of the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, muscles, and autonomic nervous system, as well as the blood vessels that relate to these structures. The disorders include: stroke, brain and spinal tumors, muscular dystrophy, headache and other pain, meningitis, encephalitis, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders, multiple sclerosis, and effects of systemic diseases, like high blood pressure and diabetes, on the nervous system.
Primary Specialty Certificate
Neurology with Special Qualification in Child Neurology
Child neurologists diagnose and treat similar disorders in infants, children, and adolescents. They also have special competence in genetic and metabolic problems, malformation, retardation, and other neurodevelopmental problems of childhood.
Subspecialties
Brain Injury Medicine
Brain Injury Medicine is a subspecialty focused on the prevention of brain injury, as well as the evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of individuals with acquired brain injury. These physicians provide a high level of care for patients with brain injury and their families in hospital and post-acute settings, and over the continuum of care to facilitate the process of recovery and improve medical and functional outcomes.
Clinical Neurophysiology
A neurologist, child neurologist, or psychiatrist who focuses on the evaluation and treatment of central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous system disorders using a combination of clinical evaluation and electrophysiologic testing such as electroencephalography (EEG), electromyography (EMG), and nerve conduction studies (NCS), among others.
Epilepsy
A neurologist or child neurologist who focuses on the evaluation and treatment of adults and children with recurrent seizure activity and seizure disorders. Specialists in Epilepsy (epileptologists) possess specialized knowledge in the science, clinical evaluation, and management of these disorders.
​Hospice and Palliative Medicine
A neurologist, child neurologist, or psychiatrist who specializes in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to optimize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family.
Neurocritical Care
The medical specialty of Neurocritical Care is devoted to the comprehensive multisystem care of the critically ill patient with neurological diseases and conditions.
Neurodevelopmental Disabilities
A child neurologist or pediatrician who focuses on the evaluation and treatment of chronic conditions that affect the developing and mature nervous system such as cerebral palsy, mental retardation, and chronic behavioral syndromes or neurologic conditions.
Neuromuscular Medicine
A neurologist, child neurologist, or physiatrist who focuses on the evaluation and treatment of disorders of nerve, muscle or neuromuscular junction, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), peripheral neuropathies (e.g., diabetic), various muscular dystrophies, congenital and acquired myopathies, inflammatory myopathies (e.g., polymyositis), and neuromuscular transmission disorders (e.g., myasthenia gravis).
Pain Medicine
A neurologist or child neurologist who specializes in Pain Medicine diagnoses and treats patients experiencing problems with acute or chronic pain, or pain related to cancer, in both hospital and outpatient settings and coordinates care needs with other specialists.
Sleep Medicine
A neurologist or child neurologist who specializes in Pain Medicine diagnoses and treats patients experiencing problems with acute or chronic pain, or pain related to cancer, in both hospital and outpatient settings and coordinates care needs with other specialists.A neurologist or child neurologist with demonstrated expertise in the diagnosis and management of clinical conditions that occur during sleep, that disturb sleep, or that are affected by disturbances in the wakesleep cycle. This specialist is skilled in the analysis and interpretation of comprehensive polysomnography, and well versed in emerging research and management of a sleep laboratory
Vascular Neurology
A neurologist or child neurologist who focuses on the evaluation and treatment of vascular events affecting the brain or spinal cord, such as ischemic stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, spinal cord ischemia, and spinal cord hemorrhage.
Nuclear Medicine
​A specialist in Nuclear Medicine uses molecular tracers (usually labeled with radioactive atoms) for diagnosis and therapy. These labeled tracers are most often used to produce images that provide information about organ function, as well as cellular function on a molecular level (molecular imaging). Molecular imaging can be combined with anatomical imaging by using specialized cameras. The most common diagnostic applications of Nuclear Medicine include the early detection of coronary artery disease, cancer diagnosis and staging, and the evaluation of the effect of cancer treatment. The fusion of molecular and anatomical information increases diagnostic accuracy and changes medical management. Radioactive materials are also used to treat a variety of health problems, including thyroid disorders and cancer
Obstetrics and Gynecology
An obstetrician/gynecologist focuses on the health of women before, during, and after childbearing years, diagnosing and treating conditions of the reproductive system and associated disorders.
Subspecialties
Critical Care Medicine
An obstetrician/gynecologist who specializes in Critical Care Medicine has expertise in the diagnosis, treatment, and support of critically ill and injured patients, particularly trauma victims and patients with multiple organ dysfunction.
Complex Family Planning
​A subspecialist in Complex Family Planning is a physician who diagnoses and treats women with medically- and surgically-complex conditions. These physicians consult with obstetrics and gynecology specialists and other clinicians to provide an advanced level of care for improving the reproductive health of women facing medically challenging situations.
Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery
​This subspecialist provides consultation and comprehensive management in cases involving complex benign pelvic conditions, lower urinary tract disorders, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Comprehensive management includes those diagnostic and therapeutic procedures necessary for the total care of the patient with these conditions and complications resulting from them.
Gynecologic Oncology
A gynecologic oncologist is a subspecialist who provides consultation and comprehensive case management for patients with gynecologic cancer, including overseeing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and any resulting complications.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
​A specialist in Hospice and Palliative Medicine provides care to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to optimize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both patient and family.
Maternal–Fetal Medicine
​This subspecialist provides consultation and comprehensive case management expertise for patients with pregnancy complications, including the effects of those complications on both the mother and the fetus.
Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility
These subspecialists also are trained to evaluate and treat hormonal dysfunctions in females outside of infertility.
Ophthalmology
Ophthalmology is a specialty focused on the medical and surgical care of the eyes. Ophthalmologists are the only physicians medically trained to manage the complete range of eye and vision care. They can prescribe glasses and contact lenses, dispense medications, diagnose and treat eye conditions and diseases, and perform surgeries.
Orthopaedic Surgery
​An orthopaedic surgeon is educated in the preservation, investigation, and restoration of the form and function of the extremities, spine, and associated structures by medical, surgical, and physical means. This specialist is involved with the care of patients whose musculoskeletal problems include congenital deformities, trauma, infections, tumors, metabolic disturbances of the musculoskeletal system, deformities, injuries, and degenerative diseases of the spine, hands, feet, knee, hip, shoulder, and elbow in children and adults. An orthopaedic surgeon is also concerned with primary and secondary muscular problems and the effects of central or peripheral nervous system lesions of the musculoskeletal system.
Subspecialties
Orthopaedic Sports Medicine
​An orthopaedic surgeon educated in Sports Medicine has expertise in the surgical and medical care for all structures of the musculoskeletal system directly affected by participation in a sporting activity. This specialist is proficient in areas including conditioning, training and fitness, athletic performance, the impact of dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, and nutrition on performance and health, coordination of care within the team setting utilizing other health care professionals, field evaluation and management, soft tissue biomechanics, and injury healing and repair. Knowledge and understanding of the principles and techniques of rehabilitation, athletic equipment, and orthotic devices enables the specialist to prevent and manage athletic injuries.
Surgery of the Hand
A surgeon trained in Surgery of the Hand has expertise in the surgical, medical, and rehabilitative care of patients with diseases, injuries, and disorders affecting the hand, wrist, and forearm. Common conditions treated by a hand surgeon include carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger fingers, ganglia (lumps), sports injuries to the hand and wrist, and hand injuries involving fractures, dislocations, lacerated tendons, nerves, and arteries. Hand surgeons may be general surgeons, orthopaedic surgeons, or plastic surgeons who have received additional training in this area.
Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
An otolaryngologist–head and neck surgeon provides medical and/ or surgical therapy for the prevention of diseases, allergies, neoplasms, deformities, disorders, and/or injuries of the ears, nose, sinuses, throat, respiratory, and upper alimentary systems, face, jaws, and the other head and neck systems. Head and neck oncology, facial, plastic, and reconstructive surgery and the treatment of disorders of hearing and voice are fundamental areas of expertise.
Subspecialties
Neurotology
The neurotologist has special expertise in the management of diseases of the inner ear, temporal bone, and skull base, including tumors and other conditions.
Complex Pediatric Otolaryngology
A pediatric otolaryngologist trained in this area has special expertise in caring for infants and children with complex otolaryngologic disorders and/or common otolaryngologic disorders in otherwise complex children. Most practice in pediatric-specific institutions where they are members of interdisciplinary teams to provide optimal care to the patient. Some of the complex problems this specialist evaluates include congenital abnormalities, infectious and inflammatory disorders and inherited and acquired conditions of the head and neck, including hearing loss and other communication impairments. They diagnose and provide both medical and surgical treatment of complex disorders of the aerodigestive tract, ear, nose, sinus, throat, voice, and speech and head and neck.
