## Overview

 ## What should I consider before talking to a specialist?

If you need a routine checkup or a preventive care exam, a primary care physician is your best bet. But you might want to consult with a specialist if you have very specific concerns, if you have an unusual condition that is hard to diagnose, or if you need specialized treatment for a complex problem.

## Do I need a referral to see a specialist?

You do not need a referral to see a specialist. Just be sure to see a specialist in your health plan network. Blue Cross has worked with the doctors, hospitals and clinics in your network to establish a discounted rate for care. That means, as long as you use in-network specialists and other providers, you'll receive the highest level of benefits and pay the least amount.



 

 

 

 

 SVG

   
      .cls-1, .cls-2 {
        fill: none;
        stroke: #231f20;
        stroke-miterlimit: 10;
        stroke-width: 2px;
      }

      .cls-2 {
        stroke-linecap: square;
      }
                

 

 

 

### Find care

Search for in-network doctors and providers in your area. Log in for current plan coverage.



 

[Find care](/find-care)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

## Types 

 ## Common Types of Specialists

Here is a partial list of specialists and the types of health problems they diagnose and treat.

SpecialistHealth Conditions TreatedAllergistAllergies and asthmaCardiologistHeart disordersDermatologistSkin disordersEndocrinologistMetabolic disorders, such as diabetesGastroenterologistDigestive problemsGynecologistWomen's reproductive healthHematologistBlood disordersInternistAdult internal medicineNephrologistKidney disordersNeurologistNervous system disordersOncologistCancer treatmentOphthalmologistEye disordersOrthopedistBone disordersOtolaryngologistEar, nose, and throat (ENT)Peer Support SpecialistMental health and substance usePodiatristFoot, ankle and lower leg disordersPsychiatristMental/emotional disordersPulmonologistLung and respiratory disordersRadiologistX-rays and scansUrologistUrinary tract disorders and male reproduction

 

 

 

 

 

We feature different networks of health care providers. Each provider is an independent contractor and not our agent.