What Type of Doctor Do I Need to See for Hepatitis C?

Being under the care of the right doctor can make a difference in your hepatitis C journey.

What doctors treat hepatitis C

There are several highly qualified doctors who specialize in the care and treatment of hepatitis C and liver disease, such as:

• Hepatologists
• Gastroenterologists
• Infectious disease specialists

Why do I need to see a specialist?

Liver specialists like a hepatologist, gastroenterologist, or infectious disease doctors have gone through extensive study of liver disease. They are up-to-date with the latest testing and treatments available. They specialize in all types of liver damage and patient care.

Your liver is the powerhouse engine for the body, so being under the care of the right doctor who specializes in the function, care, and treatment can make a difference in your health.

My personal experience

I know personally why being under the care of a liver specialist is important. After my treatment for hepatitis C had failed, I was waiting for a new treatment to become available. During that time, we had an insurance change that resulted in my gastroenterologist not being on my insurance plan.

I had to temporarily change doctors. The new doctor was not a liver specialist. On my first visit, I took my medical records, and explained to him my hepatitis C history and failed treatment. He abruptly told me I didn’t need to see a liver specialist and needed to accept there was nothing that could be done for me. I was shocked at his rudeness and attitude. I told him I didn’t agree and left his office.

I sat in my car, hurt, angry, and tears flowing. I prayed for direction and felt the need to see my gastroenterologist. His nurse patiently listened as I explained what the new doctor had told me. She went to see if my gastroenterologist would see me.

My gastroenterologist was able to see me and listened as I explained my experience with this new doctor. With kindness, he told me he was sorry I had this bad experience. He told me he did not agree with this doctor, and there was plenty that could be done to help my liver. He also encouraged me that new treatments were going to become available soon that he felt would resolve my hepatitis C.

If I had given up and not sought the care of my liver specialist, I would not be here today. If you have had a bad experience with a doctor, you have the right to change doctors. Never give up! Your health is worth it!