What Type of Doctor Do I Need for Treatment?

Building the right healthcare team is your first proactive step in fighting hep C and liver disease. Choosing the right doctor is extremely important for your health.

Proactive steps in choosing the right doctor

A doctor and healthcare team need to be the right fit for you and your needs. As a patient, you have the right to ask questions and be given time and respect. You should also have access to copies of all of your test results and medical records.

Most importantly, you deserve a doctor who cares for your medical needs above all else.

If you have a bad repour or a bad experience with your doctor, nurse, or staff, you have the right to talk to your doctor about it and change doctors. You don’t have to accept “you’re not sick enough” for hep C treatment or accept that your insurance denied approval.

Appeal the denial with your insurance company or choose another treatment and try again.

When I was diagnosed with hep C, my primary care doctor suggested that I see a gastroenterologist. My gastroenterologist suggested we add a hepatologist to my healthcare team.

I learned how important each of these doctors, nurses, registered dietitians, and specialty pharmacists were in building a healthcare team who would come along beside me to help me fight hep C.

Doctors who specialize in liver disease

These doctors specialize in the study of liver disease, treatment, and care:

• Hepatologist
• Gastroenterologist
• Infectious Disease Specialist

Other hep C health professionals

These doctors can help you in other areas, depending on what kind of treatment you may need:

• Registered Dietitian: If you have cirrhosis, a specialized diet designed for your liver condition is key for your health. A registered dietitian can work with your liver specialized for liver and medical conditions.
• Primary Care Physician: Your primary care physician always needs to be kept in the loop with your liver condition, treatment, and care. They need copies of your tests, and reports so that can work with your specialists for your best care.
• Specialty Pharmacist: Specialty pharmacists are well trained in hepatitis C treatment medications as well as all medications and over-the-counter medications that affect your liver.

Being under the right doctor’s care and building an helpful healthcare team can make the difference as you fight hep C and liver disease. You deserve the best care possible!