Other Medical Specialists

Patients who are critically ill often have more than one medical problem. They may develop a problem with their heart or kidneys, or require a surgical procedure. To provide the best possible care, the CCTC Consultant will often ask physicians with expertise in other areas of medicine to assess the patient and provide additional medical recommendations or direction.The CCTC Consultant acts as a coordinator, ensuring that the recommendations from all of the Specialsist and Attending Physicians are incorporated into one plan of care.

Examples of Medical Specialists who may participate in the care of patients in CCTC:

Surgeon: A surgeon is a physician trained to perform operations. There are many different types of surgeons, each specializing in different types of procedures. In Canada, surgeons receive certification from the Royal College of Surgeons. They carry the designation FRCSC (Royal College of Surgeons in Canada).

For example:

ENT Surgeon: An ENT Surgeon performs operations on the ear, nose or throat.

General Surgeon: Performs a variety of operations. In critcally ill patients, these often include operations on the gastrointestinal tract or to remove tumours.

Neurosurgeon: Performs operations on the brain or nerves (neuro).

Orthopedic Surgeon: Performs operations to repair damaged or broken bones.

Plastic Surgeon: Performs surgery to repair facial, complex limb or serious skin injuries (including burns).

Thoracic Surgeon: Performs operations on the lungs or in the chest (called thorax).

Vascular Surgeon: Performs operations on the blood vessels, for example aneurysm surgery (vascular).

Internist: An internist is a physician who has received specialty education in the care of medical problems. In Canada, physicians specializing in internal medicine receive certification from the Royal College of Physicians. They carry the designation FRCPC (Royal College of Physicians in Canada).

Cardiologist: A cardiologist is a heart doctor. They specialize in heart and blood pressure disorders.

General Internist: Cares for patients with a variety of medical disorders.

Infectious Disease Specialist: An Infectious Disease Specialist has additional education in the care of patients with serious infections.

Nephrologist: A nephrologist is a kidney doctor. They are responsible for managing kidney dialysis treatments.

Neurologist: A neurologist is a physician who specializes in the care of the brain and nervous system.

Oncologist: An oncologist is a physician who specializes in cancer care.

Respirologist: A respirologist is lung doctor. Asthma or chronic lung disease are examples of common disorders managed by these specialists.

To become a specialist in internal medicine or surgery, physicians study for an additional 4-5 years. All Medical Specialist are faculty with the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry at the University of Western Ontario.