Understanding Different Types of Doctors: Specialists vs. General Practitioners

Typically, a doctor can be separated into two different types: One would be a general practitioner (GP) and the other could be defined as a specialist. However, when you are sick or injured, the type of doctor you see would depend on your medical condition or the severity of your ailment or injury.

General practitioners have a broad knowledge of medicine and constantly remain informed about general medical practice. From colds and flu to sprains, pains and other more chronic conditions, a GP is usually your first point of contact when it comes to ailments when you are not too sure where to begin. A doctor will typically refer you to a specialist if you have certain injuries or illnesses as they have in-depth knowledge and expertise in a specific area of medicine, such as cardiology or dermatology.

In this article, the qualified leaders in health at Intercare Medical and Dental Centres will discuss the various types of doctors, the role that they would play in your healthcare and how to go about choosing the right doctor for your needs. That said, although we will explore these specialised professions, we will always advise that you see a general practitioner first so that they can refer you to the correct doctor for your specific needs.

A Specialised Doctor for Every Need

 

Specialists are typically experts in their field of practice. They have completed additional training and education in their field of practice, and they can provide more specialised care than the average doctor or general practitioner in one specific field.

The most common specialities in medicine may include but are not exclusive to:

• - Allergists or Immunologists: Treat immune system disorders like asthma, food allergies and insect sting allergies. They might also treat various autoimmune diseases.
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•  - Anaesthesiologists: These specialists administer various types of medication and drugs to numb the pain, put you to sleep during surgery or assist with pain management during childbirth and other medical procedures. They will also monitor vital signs while you are under anaesthesia. 
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• - Cardiologists: Are experts in the investigation of hearts and blood vessels. You may have to consult with these specialists in the event of high blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat, high cholesterol, diabetes or after suffering from a heart attack.
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• - Colon and Rectal Surgeons: In the event of suffering from problems with your small intestine, colon, anus or anal tract, you would be referred to these specialists. They specialise in treatments concerning haemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease, colon cancer and more.
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• - Critical Care Medical Specialists: Care for patients who are critically ill or injured. You would typically find these doctors in critical care units, first responder trauma units and intensive care departments in hospitals and medical centres.
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• - Dermatologists: Treat patients who suffer from skin conditions like acne, moles, scars, lupus and more. Additionally, they care for medical problems regarding hair growth and nail disorders.
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• - Endocrinologists: These medical professionals are experts on hormones and metabolism. They might treat conditions such as diabetes, infertility, calcium deficiencies, thyroid problems and bone disorders.
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• - Geriatric Medicine Specialists: A doctor who specialises in geriatric medicine cares for the aged. These special individuals will treat patients in nursing homes, assisted-living centres, and hospitals and even make house calls for specialised treatment for elderly people.
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• - Haematologists: Are specialists in diseases that affect the spleen, lymph glands and blood, like haemophilia, leukaemia, sickle cell disease and anaemia.
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• - Hospice and Palliative Care Specialists: These specialist doctors are people who work with individuals who are close to death. These doctors are experts in pain management medication. They work alongside nurses and other professionals to maintain a quality of life until the very end.
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• - Internal Medication Specialists: Are responsible for treating individuals with chronic diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure and more.
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• - Neurologists: These are doctors who specialise in the nervous system. They may also treat conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord like epilepsy, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. 
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• - Ophthalmology: Some may call them eye doctors, while others call them optometrists. They can prescribe glasses or contact lenses and may treat conditions like glaucoma. They may also specialise in eye reconstruction or plastic surgery surrounding the eyes. 
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• - Oncologists: These are doctors who concentrate their studies on different types of cancer. Treatments like stent insertion, chemotherapy, radiation treatments and more are life-saving practices that have saved the lives of millions of fortunate patients.
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• - Obstetricians and Gynaecologists: These specialists focus on women’s health issues, including pregnancy and childbirth. They are responsible for pap smears, pelvic examinations in women and pregnancy. Some of these specialists will focus on women’s reproductive health, while others may just concentrate on pregnant women.
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• - Otolaryngologists: These are doctors who specialise in the ears, nose, throat, sinuses, head, neck and respiratory systems. They may also specialise in plastic surgery or reconstructive surgery around the head and neck.
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• - Paediatricians: These are doctors who specialise in the care of children and pre-teen individuals.
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• - Psychology, Psychotherapy and Psychiatry: These are professions that concentrate on mental health issues. These specialists are experts in exploring the mind and the way people think. They can be helpful in areas where mental illness has affected patients and they can manage individuals with medication that might assist in stabilising their condition. 

 

Although these are not all the areas of medicine that various doctors will specialise in, it is a comprehensive list of typical types of specialists that you might need throughout your lifetime. However, searching for just the right doctor also includes one that is easy to talk to and friendly, listens to your concerns and offers informed advice. It should be someone professional, someone you can trust and who has an excellent bedside manner.

 

Where to Turn When You Need a General Practitioner, Doctor or Specialist

 

There are many reasons why you may want to visit a medical professional, general practitioner, doctor or specialist, the above being only a few. So, when searching for medical and dental professionals practising all forms of healthcare, consider Intercare Medical and Dental Centres.

We are a community of specifically selected experts in our professions and are conveniently located in cities and suburbs throughout South Africa. If you require the services of a doctor near you, we offer a full range of medical and dental treatments, usually all situated under one roof. So, from our comfortable, family-friendly waiting rooms, through the medical process to filling prescriptions, we can assist with all your medical requirements. For all of your medical needs contact Intercare today. We are the leaders in health care.

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