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Guide To Hospital Departments

A-Z
Accident & Emergency (A&E)
Allergy, Immunology, Pulmonology
Anesthesiology
Cancer (Oncology)
Cancer Screening
Cardiology
Complementary And Alternative
Dermatology (skin)
Diabetes and Endocrinology

Gastroenterology
Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT)
Geriatrics
Hematology (Blood)
Infectious Diseases
Internal Medicine
Nephrology (Kidney Disease)
Neurology
Obstetrics and Gynecology

Ophthalmology (Eyes)
Pain Medicine
Pathology
Pediatrics
Preventive and Nutrition
Psychiatry and Mental Health
Radiology
Rheumatology
Surgery

What Happens In A&E

&E is also referred to as the emergency department (ED) or emergency room (ER). This facility assesses and treats
atients with sudden serious injuries and illnesses. When a patient dials 911 with a worrying condition they are taken by
mbulance to the A&E department at the nearest hospital. 45 million injuries are dealt with through A&E departments ever
ear in the United States.

What Is Treated In A&E

he most common problems treated in A&E are:

hest pain.
Heart failure.
Heart attack and stroke.
erebrovascular accidents (head injuries).
nfectious diseases.
bdominal pain.
Gastrointestinal bleeding.
espiratory diseases like pneumonia.
bscesses.
evere cuts and broken bones.
Orthopedic and rheumatologic complaints.

ome Reasons Always To Call 911

f a person:
xperiences loss of consciousness.
ecomes very confused and has fits that do not stop.

Has persistent, severe chest pain.

Has breathing difficulties.
xperiences bleeding that won't stop.

Allergy,
mmunology
nd
Pulmonology

What Happens In This Department

This department offers specialized diagnostic tests and treatment for people with diseases of the
respiratory tract (pulmonology), immune system (immunology) and allergies. The most common
condition investigated is asthma. Doctors will review possible environmental triggers to determine both
indoor or outdoor allergens (substances a patient may be allergic to). In some instances a nurse may
visit the patient's home to check for possible allergens. Some centers may have a cardiopulmonary
sleep and ventilatory disorders laboratory. Here, patients are assessed overnight while sleeping to
diagnose a variety of breathing disorders associated with sleep. It may be referred to as a sleep center
What Is Treated
Sleep apnea.
Periodic breathing associated with congestive heart failure (CHF).
Nocturnal asthma (where symptoms are worse at night).
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Breathing difficulties associated with obesity.
Asthma.
Chronic or recurrent sinusitis.
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
Anaphylaxis (serious allergic reactions).
Angioedema (edema, rapid swelling caused by allergic reaction).
Chronic lung disease.
Insect hypersensitivity.
Neurologic diseases (problems with the brain).
Chronic obstructive lung disease.
Neuromuscular disorders (diseases that affect the nerves that control your voluntary muscles).
Emphysema.
Lung transplantation.
Adult cystic fibrosis.
Types Of Doctors In This Department
Doctors who treat these conditions are allergists, immunologists and pulmonologists. A doctor who
specializes in treating asthma is likely to qualify in one or more of these areas.

Anesthesiology What Happens In Anesthesiology

Cancer
Oncology)

This department will have a team of doctors called anesthesiologists who specialize in providing
anesthesia for all types of surgery. Where a surgeon performs the surgical procedure, an
anesthesiologist makes the decision about how much or what type of anesthetic to use. He also attend
surgery to supervise the patient's vital signs while under the effects of anesthesia. He makes medical
decisions regarding life functions such as heart rate, breathing and blood.
Diseases And Disorders Treated

An anesthesiologist works across all departments where surgical intervention is necessary. Some
doctors may have additional experience in certain types of surgeries such as cardiac, thoracic, vascular
orthopedic, neurological or pediatric, as well as pain control during labor (using an epidural pain
relief for example). Or they may be dedicated to working in pain medicine - that is, the treatment of
people with chronic pain.
Types Of Doctors In Anesthesiology
A doctors that works in anesthesiology is called an anesthesiologist. A qualified nurse is called
ananesthetist. Anesthetist nurses are only allowed to administer anesthesia under the supervision of
physician. The supervising physician however can be any kind of physician.

What Happens In Oncology

The oncology department specializes in the diagnosis, management and treatment of cancer. Most
hospitals are also involved in research and participate in cancer clinical trials to test new forms of
treatments on willing patients. The oncology department offers a variety of cancer treatments such as
cancer drugs, biological targeted therapies, chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Oncology closely liaises
with the department of surgery (if surgery is required - surgeons can specialize in surgical oncology,
that is the removal of cancerous tumors), the pain clinic (helping patients cope with chronic pain),

Cancer
Screening
nd
Awareness

radiology, dieticians and social workers.

What Is Treated In Oncology
Common Cancers:
Colon cancer.
Rectum cancer.
Breast cancer.
Prostate cancer.
Lung cancer.
Less frequently:
Brain tumors.
Head and neck tumors (including thyroid cancer).
Sarcomas.
Melanoma (skin cancer).
Kidney cancer.
Cervical cancer.
Ovarian cancer.
Vaginal cancer.
Vulva cancer.
Fallopian tube cancer.
Endometrial cancer.
Hepatoma (liver cancer).
Biliary cancers.
Pancreatic cancer.
Neuroendocrine cancers.
Type Of Doctors That Treat Cancer
Medical oncologist: A doctor qualified to specialize in cancer care and treatment is called a medical
oncologist. Adult oncologists prescribe, administer and monitor chemotherapy in adults.
Pediatric oncologists prescribe, administer and monitor chemotherapy in infants and children.
Diagnostic radiologists specialize in the use of X-rays, CT scans, bone scans, MRIs and other
radiation-based techniques for diagnosing cancer.
Radiation oncologists prescribe, administer and monitor radiation therapy to kill cancer cells. In
some hospitals diagnostic radiologists and radiation oncologists have their own department called the
department of radiation oncology.
Oncology nurses are nurses who are qualified in the care of cancer patients.

Screening
Most hospitals will run a cancer screening program to promote awareness and early detection of
disease. Screenings are usually covered by health insurance, although most hospitals will also
periodically offer free screenings. You should check on your local hospitals website for their schedule.

Common screenings include:

Breast cancer: mammogram, clinical breast exams, genetic counseling and genetic testing for breast
cancer. See also, breast cancer diagnosis.
Cervical cancer: pap smears, HPV testing and vaccination, and genetic counseling and testing.
Seecervical cancer diagnosis.
Colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum): colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy and genetic
counseling/testing.
Ovarian cancer: pelvic examinations, rectal exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, CA-125 blood test, and
genetic counseling/testing. See ovarian cancer diagnosis.
Skin cancer: screening, including genetic testing and counseling for patients with a strong family
history of skin cancer, including melanoma, atypical nevi, and basal cell carcinoma or squamous under
the age of 30.
Related
Recommened screenings for women: All health screenings.

Cardiology

What Happens In Cardiology

The cardiology department specializes in the diagnosis, management and
treatment of heart disease. It offers a range of diagnostic services for heart
disease includingangiography, cardiac MRI scan, echocardiography, Holter
monitoring, heart biopsy (myocardial biopsy), nuclear imaging, stress testing and
tilt table testing. Treatment may involve the use of medication, diet adjustment
and specialized surgery such asangioplasty with stent placement, heart bypass
surgery or transmyocardial revascularization for patients with angina chest pain.
Some hospitals have a specialized chest pain center which is a collaboration
between cardiology and the emergency department to deal with patients
presenting in an emergency in a rapid manner. After patients receive cardiology
treatment they may be advised to attendcardiac rehabilitation to help with their
recovery. Here, they will receive a personal exercise and eating plan and advice
on stress management and physical therapy so they can return as soon as
possible to regular activities. Some departments also run a preventive
cardiology program working with people who are at risk of heart disease - those
with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, as well as people who are
obese and smoke - to help them to adopt healthier lifestyles.
What Is Treated In Cardiology
Congenital heart disease.
Coronary heart disease.
Heart failure.
Angina pain.

Arrhythmias: heart rhythm abnormalities.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Thoracic aortic aneurysm.
Specialized treatments include heart transplant and heart valve repair and
replacement.
Type Of Doctors In Cardiology
Cardiologist: A doctor trained in diagnosing, treating and preventing heart
disease. A cardiologist is not a trained surgeon, but some do diagnostic tests such
as cardiac catheterizations that require small skin incisions and some put in
pacemakers. A heart surgeon is called a cardiac surgeon.
Cardiology nurse: This type of nurse can work in different areas of cardiac care,
including coronary care units (CCU), intensive care units (ICU), cardiac
catheterization, surgery, cardiac surgery wards, cardiac medical wards,
cardiovascular intensive care units (CVICU) and cardiac rehabilitation centers.

Complementary,
Alternative
and Integrative
Medicine

What Happens In This Department

The department works with other hospital departments (such as internal
medicine, oncology, gastroenterology and cardiology) to integrate complementary
therapies into a patients treatment plan. The aim is to treat chronic disease
holistically and improve a patients quality of life. Most centers will participate in
clinical trials and document the outcomes of patients who receive integrated care.
One focus of clinical trial for example is the use of the herb black cohosh in
treating menopause symptoms, or a trial comparing different types of diet plans
on preventing heart disease (American Heart Association diet vs. macrobiotic
diet). Treatments on offer may include may include acupuncture, herbal medicine,
yoga, homeopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, meditation, Tai Chi, shiatsu,
Pilates and massage.
Conditions Treated
Menopause symptoms.
Chronic pain.
Stress reduction.
Breast cancer prevention.
Heart disease prevention.
Types Of Doctors
A team of experts work at an integrative medicine center including board-certified
gastroenterologists, internists, acupuncturists, psychotherapists, licensed
massage therapists, nutritionists, registered dieticians and clinical counselors.

Dermatology

What Happens In Dermatology

The dermatology department offers a range of services for patients with common
skin disorders such as eczema or warts as well as more complex skin problems
like vitiligo and skin cancer. It also treats patients suffering from hair loss. Most
services are offered on an outpatient basis. Procedures on offer will include
excisional surgery, laser surgery, cryosurgery, electrosurgery and skin cancer
surgery (in liaison with oncology). The department will also have diagnostic and
therapy services for people with sexually transmitted diseases involving the skin
(such asgenital warts, crabs and scabies). The cosmetic and laser dermatology
unit offers medical and surgical interventions to treat cosmetic problems, hair
transplantation, laser dermatology, chemical peels, dermabrasion, retinoid therapy
and alpha-hydroxy acids. Patients with dysplastic nevi and/or skin cancer will be
treated in the pigmented lesion unit. This specialized area requires the
participation of pathologists, medical and surgical oncologists, radiation therapists
and experts in molecular medicine.
What Is Treated In Dermatology
Rosacea
Acne
Bullous disease (autoimmune blistering disease)
Psoriasis
Eczema
Cutaneous lymphoma
Dermatitis
Psoriasis
Hair loss
Warts
Actinic keratoses
Vitiligo
Skin cancer
STDs that affect the skin.
Genetic diseases that affect the skin.
Types Of Doctors Who Treat Skin Problems
Dermatologist: Doctor who specializes in dealing with diseases and conditions of
the skin. Some doctors choose to specialize further, for example by training in
cutaneous oncology (skin cancers).
Dermatopathologist: A physician who is trained to interpret skin biopsies.
Pediatric dermatologist: doctor specializes in dealing with diseases and
conditions of the skin in children.
Dermatology nurses: Works in the dermatology department of a hospital or the

offices of a plastic surgeon.

Diabetes
and
Endocrinology

What Happens In This Department

It specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes and disorders of the
endocrine glands (glands that control the bodys hormones, this medical area of
expertise is known as endocrinology). The center will have a team of diabetes
experts and educators who will advise patients on diabetes complications and
prevention. It will have examination rooms for a thyroid ultrasound and biopsy.
Conditions Treated
Type 1 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes (adult onset).
Gestational diabetes (in pregnancy).
Insulin resistance.
Thyroid disorders such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.
Endocrine disorders including pituitary and adrenal diseases.
Cushing's syndrome.
Growth disorders in children.
Types Of Doctors Who Treat Diabetes And Endocrine Disorders
Endocrinologist: A doctor who specializes in hormone related illnesses. An
endocrinologist may also be consulted to treat conditions such as the menopause,
metabolic disorders and infertility (all related to hormone imbalances).
Diabetologist: An endocrinologist who specializes in treating diabetics.
Diabetes educator: Healthcare workers specially qualified in training diabetics
on managing their condition.
Diabetes specialist nurses: Work alongside doctors in hospital but can also see
patients independently to carry out treatment prescribed by a doctor and to offer
advice on managing diabetes.

Gastroenterology

What Happens In Gastroenterology

This department specializes in diagnosing and treating digestive diseases and
disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. That is, disorders of the esophagus,
stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, liver, bile ducts and pancreas. Some
departments will have sub-specialties, for example in colerectal surgery or
treating swallowing problems and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
What Is Treated In Gastroenterology
Anorectal diseases (rectum and anus).
Celiac disease.

Colorectal cancer.
Esophageal diseases.
Functional dyspepsia.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Ulcerative colitis.
Crohn's disease.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Liver diseases.
Obesity, via weight loss surgery.
Pancreas and biliary diseases.
Stomach diseases.
Types Of Doctors Who Treat Digestive Disorders
Gastroenterologist: A doctor qualified to treat digestive and abdominal
problems - that is diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (organs along the
alimentary canal from the mouth to the anus).
Hepatologist: A sub-specialty doctor who focuses hepatobiliary medicine treating the liver, pancreas and bile ducts.

Ear, Nose and Throat What Happens In ENT (Otorhinolaryngology)

(ENT)
This department specializes in head and face disorders, especially those related to
the ear, nose, and throat. All Doctors in ENT will treat routine cases of nose
bleeds, sinus disease, snoring and sleep disorders. Many will also usually subspecialize in one or more areas including neurotology (study of nerves in the
ears), otology (hearing), nasal and sinus problems, swallowing and voice
problems, surgery and audiology (hearing and balance).
What Is Treated In ENT
Ear Problems and Procedures
Hearing and deafness.
Hearing aids and how to get one.
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
Dizziness and vertigo.
Infections of the ear.
Glue ear.
Grommets.
Perforated ear drum.
Cholesteatoma/mastoid operations.
Otosclerosis.
Menieres disease.
Protruding ears/bat ears/pinnaplasty.

Nose Problems
Sinus infection (sinusitis).
Nasal injuries.
Nasal polyps.
Tumors of the nose.
Nasal obstructions.
Throat Problems and Procedures
Adenoid removal.
Tonsil removal.
Chronic sore throats.
Microlaryngoscopy.
Oesophagoscopy.
Bad breath (halitosis).
Hoarseness and laryngitis.
Snoring and sleep apnea.
Head And Neck Problems and Procedures
Facial skin lesions.
Head and neck cancers.
Gland surgery.
Neck dissection (cancer treatment).
Cosmetic Surgery
Cosmetic surgery on the nose (rhinoplasty).
Blepharoplasty (removal of excess skin from around the eyelids).
Facelifts.
Cosmetic surgery to the ear (otoplasty).
Types Of ENT Doctors
Otolaryngologists: Commonly referred to as ENT specialists, are doctors who
can practice in ENT.
Plastic surgeon: While some surgeons work primarily in cosmetic surgery,
others focus on restoration surgery - that is repairing tissues and bones so the
patient regains function after injury, trauma or burns.
ENT nurse: A nurse specialized in ENT care.

Geriatrics
Department

What Happens In Geriatrics

This department provides clinical services to older patients - both outpatient and
inpatient care. Outpatient care focuses on providing information on general
healthcare, disease prevention, chronic disease management and diagnosis of
illnesses. Inpatient services include respiratory/ventilator care, rehabilitation,
general medical care for an illness and palliative care. Some hospitals have

additional consultation services. For example John Hopkins has an inpatient hip
fracture service that helps patients avoid complications arising from a hip fracture.
Some hospitals may also offer a psychiatry program to address behavioral
symptoms like dementia and depression; as well as physical therapy, speech
language pathology and occupational therapy.
What Is Treated In Geriatrics
Psychiatric care for:
Dementia
Depression
Anxiety and irritability
Agitation
Hallucinations
Delirium
Rehabilitation after:
Stroke
Heart attack
Hip fracture (or other fracture)
Ventilator dependent patients with:
Respiratory conditions
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Emphysema
Asthma
Guillain-Barre syndrome
Myasthenia gravis
Types Of Doctors That Treat Older Patients
Geriatrician: Is a doctor who has completed a residency in either family
medicine or internal medicine or family medicine with additional fellowship
training in medical, psychological and social issues concerning older adults.
Gerontologist: A healthcare professional who specializes in working with the
elderly (they do not require a doctor's qualification). Nurses, social workers and
psychologists may have an additional qualification in gerontology.

Hematology
(Blood Disorders)

What Happens In Hematology

This department diagnoses, treats and manages blood diseases - that is, diseases
that are either congenital (the patient is born with) or acquired. Typically doctors
investigate bleeding and thrombotic (blood clotting) problems and cancers of the
blood (leukemia). Some hematology centers will offer diagnosis and counseling for
families affected by hereditary blood diseases like sickle cell.
What Is Treated In Hematology

Common blood disorders including anemia.

Anemia in pregnancy.
Bleeding disorders such as hemophilia and Von Willebrand disease (the most
common bleeding disorder in America).
Blood clots like deep-vein thrombosis (DVT).
Blood clots in arteries associated with atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).
Blood cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma.
Heredity diseases sickle cell anemia.
Bone marrow failure disorders (such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic
syndromes and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria).
What Doctors Treat Blood Disorders
Hematologist: Doctor that specializes in blood disorders.
Hematology nurse: Works with patients with blood disorders. A hematology
oncology (hem/onc) nurse is even more specialized and works with patients with
blood cancers.

Infectious Diseases

What Happens In The Infectious Diseases Department

This department treats patients with infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C
and tuberculosis. Services provided may include HIV consultation, on-site
pharmacy, phlebotomy services (safe collection of blood samples), treatment
rooms for IV infusions, nutrition counseling, buprenorphine therapy and specialty
care in dermatology, gynecology, neurology, endocrinology and mental health.
Also, HIV testing sites and access to clinical trials to try new HIV treatments.
What Is Treated In This Department
All infectious diseases, primarily HIV/AIDs but also hepatitis C and tuberculosis.
What Doctors Treat Infectious Diseases
HIV specialist: A doctor accredited by the American Academy of HIV Medicine
(AAHIVM).
Phlebotomist: Technicians who are trained to collect blood from patients for
examination by the medical laboratory team.
Genetic counselors: Genetic counselors work with families vulnerable to
inheriting genetic disorders.

Internal Medicine

What Happens In Internal Medicine

An internal medicine department provides cross-specialty care for adult patients
with a wide range of diseases. Internists (doctors trained in internal medicine) are

specially trained to solve puzzling diagnostic problems. They can handle severe
chronic illnesses and situations where several different illnesses strike at the same
time. Doctors from different departments often consult an internist in difficult
medical cases (which is why an internist is sometimes referred to
as doctorsdoctor). Patients are more likely to meet with an internist than any
other type of doctor in a hospital.
What Is Treated In Internal Medicine
Internists can practice general medicine or specialize in one of the following
areas:
Allergies and immunology.
Cardiology (heart problems).
Endocrinology (diabetes and endocrine gland disorders).
Gastroenterology (digestive problems).
Geriatrics (care of the elderly).
Hematology (blood disorders).
Infectious disease (HIV).
Nephrology (kidneys).
Oncology (cancer).
Pulmonology (lungs).
Rheumatology (arthritis).
Sports medicine.
What Doctors Practice Internal Medicine
Internist: Doctor qualified in internal medicine. A doctor can also do additional
training to sub-specialize in an area. For example, a cardiologist is an internist
who had additional training in diseases of the heart.

Nephrology
(Kidney Disease)

What Happens In Nephrology

This center offers consultation and treatment of people with both kidney disease
and hypertension. It offers hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and kidney
transplants. A peritoneal dialysis unit provides training for patients who select
peritoneal dialysis as home therapy. The hemodialysis unit provides dialysis units
for patients in hospital. Other general areas of expertise include urinary
system problems, water and electrolyte disorders, kidney disease in
pregnancy, urinary tract infections, and primary and secondary diseases of the
kidney (particularly in diabetics).
What Is Treated In Nephrology
Kidney disease.

Urinary tract infections.

Interstitial cystitis (IC).
What Doctors Treat Kidney Disease
Nephrologist: A physician who has trained in the diagnosis and management of
kidney disease.
Nephrology nurse: A nurse trained to care for people with kidney disease.

Neurology

What Happens In Neurology

This department diagnoses and treats patients with disorders of the brain
andnervous system. Doctors will carry out neurological tests to assess a patients
nerve reactions, hearing, speech and vision abilities, coordination and balance,
mental status and changes in mood or behavior.
What Is Treated In Neurology
Autism.
Asperger Syndrome.
Alzheimer's disease.
ADHD.
Epilepsy.
Chronic neuropathic pain.
Brain injury and concussion.
Brain and spine tumors.
Brain aneurysm.
Dizziness.
Facial nerve problems.
Multiple sclerosis.
Motion sickness.
Parkinson's disease.
Tourette syndrome.
Strokes.
Vertigo and balance.
Tremors.
Doctors Who Treat Brain Problems
Neurologist: A doctor who is trained to treat problems of the brain, nerves and
spinal cord.
Neurology nurse: A nurse trained to care for patients with neurological disorders
(sometimes called neuro nurse).

Obstetrics and

What Happens In Obsetrics And Gynecology

Gynecology
(OB/GYN)

This is the center for womens health. Gynecology is the treatment of conditions
and diseases of the female reproductive organs, including breasts, vagina, vulva,
womb (uterus), cervix, ovaries and fallopian tubes. Many gynecologists will have a
sub-specialty, for example in gynecologic oncology (cancer), infertility treatment,
urogynecology or laparoscopic surgery. Obstetrics is the management and care of
pregnant women. If you have been categorized as a high-risk pregnancy you will
visit this department regularly for checkups.
What Is Treated In OB/GYN
Vaginal cancer.
Vulva cancer.
Ovarian cancer.
Cervical cancer.
Fallopian tube cancer.
Endometrial cancer.
Menstrual problems from menses through to menopause.
Polycystic ovary syndrome.
Urinary incontinence.
Painful sexual intercourse.
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Endometriosis.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Uterine fibroids.
Ovarian cysts.
Uterine polyps.
Cervical polyps.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in women.
What Doctors Treat Female Problems
Gynecologist: Doctor who specializes in the treatment of female reproductive
disorders.
Obstetrician: Doctor who specializes in the care of pregnant women
and pregnancy complications. Most obstetricians are also qualified gynecologists
and are called OB/GYNs.

Ophthalmology
(Eyes)

What Happens In Ophthalmology

This department investigates, treats and manages diseases and conditions of the
eyes. Offers laser treatment (VISX Excimer Laser for example) for the treatment
of farsightedness, nearsightedness and astigmatism. Some centers are equipped
with the Sunrise Holmium Laser for the correction of farsightedness. The

department may also act as a referral center for people with ocular (eye) tumors,
including retinoblastoma (childhood ocular tumor). Leading centers also run
Neuro-Ophthalmology programs for treating patients with vision problems due to
neurological or autoimmune diseases such as migraines, thyroid disease,
demylenation, myasthenia and cerebrovascular disease. The department also
works in diagnosing and treating patients with permanent or partial visual loss,
double vision, blurred vision or unusual visual problems.
What Is Treated In Ophthalmology
Farsightedness, nearsightedness, stigmas and farsightedness.
Eye tumors (cancerous and benign).
Cataracts.
Glaucoma.
Inherited eye diseases.
Diabetic eye disease.
Tear film abnormalities.
Corneal transplants.
Partial or full loss of sight.
Double vision, blurred vision.
Eye injuries due to accidents.
Doctors Who Treat Eye Problems
Ophthalmologists: Doctors who specialize in the medical and surgical care of
the eyes.
Optometrists: Doctors of optometry (OD) who examine, diagnose, treat and
manage some eye diseases. They do not perform surgery.
Opticians: Healthcare professionals (not a medical doctor) who work with
ophthalmologists and optometrists to diagnose routine eye problems like
nearsightedness and farsightedness. They interpret prescriptions to determine
which lenses best meet a patients needs.

Pain Medicine

What Happens In Pain Medicine

This center treats patients experiencing acute (severe sudden) pain, chronic
(ongoing) pain, pain associated with cancer and pain associated with the head and
face. A variety of advanced techniques will be used to treat pain such as epidural
steroid injections, nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulator implants, non-invasive laser
therapy, trigger point injections (popular for the treatment of fibromyalgia), TENS
(transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) and radiofrequency neurolysis.
Conditions Treated
Back problems and neck pain including those caused by tumors, herniated discs,

fibrositis and spinal stenosis.

Muscles and joint pains associated with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue
syndrome.
Bone and joint problems.
Pain associated with vertebral compression fractures caused by osteoporosis.
Shingles and facial pain (trigeminal neuralgia).
Sickle cell anemia.
Cancer pain.
Pain associated with AIDS.
Pain associated with spinal cord injuries or multiple sclerosis.
Severe abdominal or pelvic pain.
Types Of Pain Management Doctors
A typical pain management team includes:
Pain Management Specialist: This type of doctor can come from any medical
background (although usually they are board-certified anesthesiologists,
neurologists, psychiatrists or physiatrists) but at some point will have specialized
in treating pain.
Clinical psychologists: A qualified health worker who is trained to help patients
with psychological-based pain.
Physiotherapists: Helps patients regain movement through physical exercises.
Occupational therapists: Provide practical day to day help by advising patients
how to manage their condition.
Nurse practitioners: Advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has
completed either a Master of nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.

Pathology

What Happens In Pathology

This department's primary role is to examine tissue samples taken by biopsy from
patients from other hospital departments. The role of pathology is not only to
diagnose the presence of (or not) a disease, but also to predict it's likely course.
For example, if cancer is discovered, the pathologist will need to confirm the type
and stage (how far progressed it is). A large hospital may have doctors
(pathologists) who specialize in particular areas, such as breast pathology, liver
pathology, neuropathology, bone pathology or gynecological pathology. This
department will also test blood samples and body fluid samples for infections and
diseases.
What Diseases Are Tested For In Pathology
Any test that requires clinical examination will be sent to the pathology
department, including tests for:

Blood disorders.
Cancers.
HIV.
Heart disease, with a heart biopsy.
Kidney disease with a renal biopsy.
Autoimmune disorders - checks for example rheumatoid factor, scleroderma
antibody and sjogrens antibody.
Infectious diseases such as toxoplasma, rubella, mumps, Lyme disease and
mononucleosis.
Types Of Pathology Doctors
Pathologists: A pathologist is a doctor trained to examine body fluids and tissues
to help a primary care doctor make a diagnosis or monitor progress of treatments.
Pathologists can have subspecialties, for example, hematopathology (bone
marrows and clotting disorders), cytopathology (Pap smears and fine needle
aspirations) and forensic pathology (coroners and medical examiners, the type
you see in detective movies).

Pediatrics

What Happens In Pediatrics

Pediatrics handles ALL conditions and illnesses of children up until the age of 18
(after this they will be treated in adults hospitals). This includes cancer,
cardiology, blood disorders, allergies and immunology, kidney disease, pain
medicine, epilepsy, infectious diseases, dermatology and critical care. Very often
pediatrics may operate as a separate stand-alone childrens hospital.
What Is Treated In Pediatrics
Any child with an illness (regardless of the type of illness) will be treated by
pediatrics.
Types Of Doctors Who Treat Children
Pediatrician: Is usually a primary care doctor who cares for infants and children
until the age of 18. Pediatricians can subspecialize in particular areas of
healthcare. For example, a pediatric cardiologist will work with children with heart
problems, pediatric gastroenterologists with gastrological disorders, pediatric ENTotolaryngologists with ear, nose or throat problems.

Preventive
Medicine and
Nutrition

What Happens In Preventive Medicine

This department helps patients to prevent or manage a medical condition by
offering advice on weight management, cholesterol, smoking cessation and other
aspects of health. A team of healthcare professionals, including general internists,

dieticians and nutritionists will work closely with other departments to offer a
holistic approach to health. For example, a dietician will work closely with
cardiology patients recovering from a heart attack and prescribe a heart healthy
eating plan.
Typical Services Offered
Nutrition consultation for weightloss, weight maintenance and weight gain.
Body composition and nutrient analysis.
Food preparation advice.
Smoking cessation program.

Psychiatry
and
Mental Health

What Happens In Psychiatry

This department cares for people suffering from mental illness and emotional
problems. Patients may stay in hospital for continual treatment or be treated on a
day-basis (out patient).
Conditions Treated
Anxiety disorders.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Autism.
Depression and bipolar disorder.
Eating disorders.
Personality disorders.
Schizophrenia.
Sleep disorders.
Substance abuse.
Women's mental health, including postpartum depression.
Doctors Who Treat Mental Health Issues
Psychiatrist: Is a medical doctor qualified in treating mental disorders. A
psychiatrist can prescribe medications (such as antidepressants).
Psychologist: A psychologist has a doctoral-level degree in psychology (but is
not a medical doctor). He can diagnosis and treat patients with mental disorders,
but may not prescribe medications.
Therapists: A therapist is general term to describe a professional that helps
counsel patients through emotional and mental issues. A therapist may be a
psychiatrist or psychologist, or he/she may be a counselor: Licensed Professional
Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC).

Radiology

What Happens In Radiology

This department provides diagnostic radiology and radiation therapy treatments.

Radiology is the use of radiation to both diagnose and treat illnesses. Diagnostic
radiology involves the use of medical imaging equipment such as X-rays,
computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Radiation therapy is used in the treatment of cancer tumors.
Services Provided
Radiation therapies.
Brachytherapy.
External beam therapy.
Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT).
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy.
Proton therapy.
Interventional radiology (IR).
Catheter angiography.
Uterine artery embolization.
Chemoembolization.
Radioembolization.
Radiofrequency ablation.
What Doctors Work In Radiology
A team of specialists work in radiology including:
Radiologist: A medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating illnesses
by using imaging techniques.
Radiologist assistant: Works with the radiologist to perform examinations. May
even make initial assessments on their own.
Radiologic technologist: Operates the radiographic equipment.
Radiologic nurse: Provides care for patients undergoing tests.
Radiation oncologist: Doctors that prescribe treatment to patients undergoing
radiation treatment.
Medical radiation physicist: Qualified healthcare workers who plan and deliver
treatment prescribed by the radiation oncologist. They work closely with the
dosimetrist.
Radiation therapist: They administer daily radiation treatments prescribed by
the radiation oncologist.
Dosimetrist: Calculates the exact dose of radiation necessary.
Radiation oncology nurse: Cares for the patient before and after treatment.
Social worker: Provide practical help for patients and their families.
Dietitian: Monitors patients weight and nutritional problems. May prescribe
nutritional supplements and provide recipes for meals.
Nuclear medicine radiologists: Known as nuclear radiologists, these are
doctors who use radioactive materials, called radiopharmaceuticals, to diagnose
and treat diseases. These radioactive materials may be injected into a patient's
veins or they may be swallowed. Typical uses: nuclear stress test, or

brachytherapy in the treatment of female cancers.

Rheumatology

What Happens In Rheumatology

The role of this department is to treat and care for patients with rheumatic and
immunologic diseases and disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing
spondylitis and scleroderma. This division will treat patients on an inpatient and
outpatient basis, and may also include patients in clinical trials to test new drugs
and treatments.
What Is Treated In Rheumatology
Rheumatoid arthritis.
Systemic lupus erythematosus.
Fibromyalgia.
Dermato-and polymyositis.
Ankylosing spondylitis.
Scleroderma.
Systemic vasculitis.
Dermatomyositis.
Doctors Who Work In Rheumatology
Rheumatologist: Doctors who specialize in treating arthritis and related
rheumatic diseases.
Related:
What type of doctor treats fibromyalgia?

Surgery

What Happens In Surgery

All hospitals have a general surgery unit which treat patients both in emergency
situations and for scheduled procedures. Surgeries performed range from
appendicitis to hernias and life threatening diseases of the stomach, lungs and
chest. Some hospitals will also offer specialized surgical procedures in one or
more of the following areas:
Breast surgery.
Cardiothoracic surgery (heart).
Colon and rectal surgery.
Dental, oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Endocrine surgery (primarily tumors).
Hand surgery.
Head and neck surgery.
Lung volume reduction surgery (emphysema).

Neurological surgery (brain and nerves).

Ophthalmological surgery (eye).
Orthopedic surgery (bones of the body, strains, fractures, broken bones).
Pediatric surgery (children).
Plastic surgery.
Thoracic surgery (chest).
Transplantation.
Urology.
Vascular.
Weight loss surgery.
Types Of Surgeons
Surgeons tend to be some of the most highly educated doctors in the U.S. Most
will specialize in an area, for example there are orthopedic surgeons, neurological
surgeons, cosmetic and reconstruction surgeons and trauma surgeons (who deal
with accidents and emergency).