Knowing where to go when you have a health related problem can be confusing. Health care services have been established to make it easier for patients to receive proper care. In order to receive the best care, patients should establish a relationship with a primary care physician whom they can consult regarding their health concerns. If a patient's condition requires specialty care, the primary care physician will be able to refer the patient to the appropriate department such as dermatology or immunology.
Primary Care
Primary care refers to the physician that patients go to for regular preventive care and treatment for illness. If the issue cannot be resolved by the primary care physician they may refer the patient to a specialist. Primary care can be divided into three categories: Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Pediatrics. Internal Medicine refers to doctors who focus on the care and treatment of adults. They have received special training that deals specifically with adult diseases and preventive care. Family Medicine refers to physicians who treat the family unit from babies to adults. Pediatrics is the division of physicians who focus on treating children from birth through adolescence. These physicians have received special training in the preventive care of children and treatment for childhood illness and disease.
Dermatology
Dermatology is a specialty that treats and diagnoses disorders and diseases of the skin, nails, and mucous membranes. Dermatologists can treat or care for a wide variety of conditions including birthmarks, skin cancer, hair loss, dandruff, eczema, acne, and skin infections. The dermatology division also offers cosmetic services. Patients can receive skin rejuvenation treatments such as microdermabrasion or chemical peels. Dermatologists also perform laser hair removal, permanent makeup applications, and surgical procedures.
Allergy and Immunology
The allergy and immunology department is available to offer specialized treatment for chronic symptoms caused by allergies or conditions such as asthma. Allergists and immunologists strive to improve quality of life by helping to treat or manage symptoms such as runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, rashes, and difficulty breathing. Allergies and conditions that affect the immune system can be deadly for some people, especially those with severe nut or shellfish allergies. It is important for patients to receive proper care and treatment for these conditions, and an allergist is well suited to advise patients on these issues. Patients may also seek treatment for medicine allergies, cosmetic allergies, seasonal, environmental, or animal allergies.
Ear, Nose, and Throat
Ear, nose, and throat doctors provide medical and surgical care and treatment for areas within the head and neck. Ear, nose, and throat physicians perform major services such as plastic surgery for the face or removal of tonsils. They also perform minor services such as hearing tests or treating ear infections. Patients suffering from conditions that affect their sinuses, hearing, or balance may be referred to an ear, nose, and throat specialist by their primary care physician.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Obstetrics and gynecology is the division that provides care and treatment for females. They provide general care for all women's health needs as well as providing care throughout pregnancy and childbirth. Women seeking general care such as pap smears and mammograms may seek out a gynecologist. A primary care physician may refer patients to see an obstetrician/gynecologist for issues or conditions such as pregnancy, fertility and reproductive treatments, or endometriosis.
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