What is a specialty?
A specialty is a particular, focused field of medicine. A specialist is a physician who cares of patients who have a particular set of diseases or conditions associated with the specialty. For example, a dermatologist is a physician who specializes in disorders of the skin, hair and nails. Before seeking care from a specialist, be sure to check with your health plan to see if you need a referral from your primary care physician. The phone number for the member service department of your health plan is usually on the back of your insurance card.
