A specialist is a physician who focuses on a specific field of medicine. They have extensive additional training and education beyond their basic medical or surgical training to become experts in their specialty.
Tips & Links
A specialist focuses on diagnosing and treating specific medical conditions or diseases within their area of expertise or specialization. Most people diagnosed with a chronic condition may see a specialist.
Learn About
- The College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC regulates the medical practice of physicians.
- Learn about the different types of specialists and the type of care they provide from Healthlink BC.
- Your physician or nurse practitioner is the initial point of contact for patients. When a medical issue requires specialized attention, you may be referred to a specialist who is best suited to your needs, closest to your community, and taking patients.
- Learn how to make your physician or healthcare visit more effective and productive from Healthlink BC.
Things You Can Do
- Bring your health advocate with you to the appointment to record the information presented, remind you of your questions and concerns, and provide emotional support.
- Be aware that you may be receiving a new diagnosis and prognosis when seeing a specialist – having someone with you can be comforting and helpful.
- Know that if you need to see your specialist for a new medical issue, you may need to get another referral from your physician or nurse practitioner.
- Learn about the Travel Assistance Program (TAP) covers some costs of transportation to specialist appointments, tests, surgeries, or hospital stays when the care is not available in your home community. Ask your specialist for a TAP letter. Plan ahead and get a confirmation number before you leave. Keep all your receipts. Learn more about TAPs from the Government of BC.
- Ask questions of all your health care providers and seek clarification on anything you do not understand.
- Know about your patient rights including informed consent, privacy and confidentiality, and the right to refuse or accept care.
- Develop your self-advocacy skills to ensure your questions are answered and your needs and decisions are heard.
- Learn about ‘Patients as Partners’ from the Government of BC.
Add your Specialist to your My Health Care & Business Professionals PDF tool found in My People. Include their contact information and any questions you have for them. Save to digital and print files.