Everyone knows that we need doctors to diagnose and treat medical conditions. However, there are many different types of doctors with particular areas of expertise. If you’re an aging adult or support someone, it’s essential to know about the different types of doctors that can help you age at home, in a nursing home or assisted living facility, and throughout your golden years.
Whether you’re expecting a baby or know someone who is, it’s good to know about the different types of doctors who specialize in maternal and child care. Whether it be a pediatrician, obstetrician, gynecologist, midwife, or nurse practitioner – each one brings unique skills and knowledge to their area of expertise.
OB/GYN (Obstetrician-Gynecologist)
OB/GYNs specialize in women’s reproductive and sexual health. They have special training in female anatomy and can perform gynecological exams and diagnose and treat problems such as infections or abnormal pap smears. If you are pregnant, an OB/GYN can deliver your baby and perform your prenatal care. If you are approaching menopause (and/or have a history of ovarian or uterine cancer), an OB/GYN can help you navigate the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy.
If you are a man, you may wonder if you need to see an OB/GYN. Most men don’t, though there are some cases where it is recommended. If you have a history of testicular or prostate cancer or have a family history of either of these diseases, it is recommended that you see an OB/GYN. If you have a diagnosis of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or your partner has and you want to know if you should be treated, you should see an OB/GYN.
Pediatrician
Pediatricians specialize in the health of children from birth through the teenage years. If you are expecting a baby or have a child, you will want to work with a pediatrician to make sure your child receives proper vaccinations and receives the necessary screenings at their developmental check-ups. Pediatricians also provide care to children with chronic illnesses, as well as healthy children.
Pediatricians can help manage any pre-existing conditions your child has (such as asthma or diabetes), as well as treat any infections or illnesses that your child gets. If your child is ready to start receiving vaccinations, a pediatrician can help make sure that you are following all of the recommended schedules. If your child has a developmental delay or disability, a pediatrician can help with diagnosis and recommendations for services and therapies.
Audiologist
Audiologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss and disorders. If you have a hearing impairment, an audiologist can evaluate your hearing and help determine the best course of treatment, whether it be through hearing aids or assistive listening devices.
Many audiology practices also specialize in the fitting of cochlear implants, which are devices surgically implanted inside the ear that replace the function of the cochlea (the part of the ear that provides you with hearing). If you are a senior with a hearing impairment, an audiology practice in NE Colorado Springs can help with fitting and monitoring your cochlear implant.
Geriatrician
Geriatricians specialize in the health of older adults and are trained to diagnose and treat the medical conditions associated with aging. Depending on which type of practice they have, they may work in a hospital, nursing home, or private practice with patients who are living in the community.
Geriatricians can provide care for you if you are aging at home and you have a chronic illness or are dealing with the effects of aging. Suppose you have a mental health condition (or have a loved one who does). In that case, a geriatrician can provide psychosocial services such as antidepressant medication management, mental health counseling, and prescription management. If you are dealing with dementia, a geriatrician can help you and your loved ones understand the condition and the care needs associated with it.
Orthopedic Doctor
Orthopedic doctors, also known as knee doctors specialize in medical conditions and injuries that affect the bones, muscles, ligaments, and joints. If you have an injury or chronic condition that impacts your bones or joints, such as knee injury, arthritis, or osteoporosis, an orthopedic doctor can provide diagnosis and treatment recommendations. If you have had a joint replacement, an orthopedic doctor can help manage your condition and determine when you are ready to return to work or physical activities.
Many people visit orthopedic doctors for sports-related injuries. If you are injured, an orthopedic doctor can treat your injury and provide recommendations for when you are ready to return to activities. If you are a child who is injured, an orthopedic doctor can recommend the best course of treatment and when you can get back to playing sports.
Registered Nurse and Rehabilitation Specialist
If you are hospitalized for an extended period of time, you may be cared for by a registered nurse. Some nurses specialize in the care of patients with specific health conditions, such as those recovering from surgery or those who have chronic illnesses. A rehabilitation specialist is a type of registered nurse who specializes in helping people recover from a health condition or surgery. They can provide assistance with physical therapy and activities of daily living (such as bathing or dressing).
Suppose you are aging at home and have recently undergone surgery or a medical procedure and need assistance with your daily living activities. In that case, you can work with a rehabilitation specialist who can provide you with the assistance you need while you recover. Suppose you have a chronic illness and require assistance with daily living activities. In that case, a rehabilitation specialist can help you stay in your home as long as possible while receiving the care you need.
Final Thoughts on Types of Doctors You Should Know
Doctors play an essential role in our lives, and as we age, we need to be sure to take care of ourselves and have regular check-ups with a physician. There are many types of doctors, each with their own expertise. Whether you are expecting a baby, aging, or have a child, there is a doctor who specializes in your care. It is important to know about the different types of doctors when you are expecting a baby, aging, or caring for someone who is because each one brings unique skills and knowledge to their area of expertise.
