If you’ve been diagnosed with an endocrine disorder, like diabetes or an underactive thyroid, or have symptoms that you worry are caused by a hormone imbalance, you may be considering seeing an endocrinologist. Here’s what you need to know about what conditions endocrinologists can treat, when to consider seeing one, and how to find the best Connecticut-based hormone specialist for your needs.
What is an Endocrinologist?
Endocrinologists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating endocrine system disorders. Your endocrine system is a network of organs, glands, and tissues that make and release hormones. Hormones are important chemicals that control many functions throughout your body, including your metabolism, moo,d and blood sugar control. Too much or too little of a hormone can cause these functions to not work properly.
Endocrinologists are highly trained doctors. After completing medical school, they must complete a three-year residency in internal medicine. Then, they complete two to three years of specialized training in endocrinology, which prepares them to treat a wide range of conditions.
What Conditions Do Endocrinologists Treat?
There are a wide range of diseases and disorders of the endocrine system. You might see an endocrinologist for diagnosis and treatment of issues like:
- Diabetes (Type 1, Type 2 or gestational)
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Osteoporosis
- Graves’ Disease
- Hashimoto’s Disease
- Adrenal Insufficiency
- Thyroid cancer
- Cushing’s syndrome
- Hormone-related infertility
- Thyroid problems in pregnancy or postpartum
When Should I See an Endocrinologist?
People often see an endocrinologist after being referred by their primary care provider. While primary care providers are trained to manage conditions like diabetes, they rely on endocrinologists to provide more specialized care. You might get referred to an endocrinologist if your condition is complex or difficult to manage.
At PACT Endocrinology, a referral isn’t required. You can schedule a consultation if you want personalized care for conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, adrenal disorders, bone health issues and more.
How Can I Find an Endocrinologist Near Me?
Like many other medical specialties, the field of endocrinology is facing a shortage of physicians. Nationwide, there are just over 8,500 active endocrinologists, despite the millions of Americans living with endocrine disorders. Fortunately, there are still endocrinologists accepting new patients (including at PACT). To find an endocrinologist in your area, try these tips:
- Talk to your primary care provider: Your Connecticut-based primary care provider can recommend a local endocrinologist who’s a good fit for your specific health needs.
- Ask family and friends: If you have family members or friends who’ve been treated by an endocrinologist, ask them to recommend a good endocrinologist in your area.
- Contact your insurance company: If you have health insurance, ask your insurance company for a list of endocrinologists in your city or county that accept your coverage.
- Search online: An online search for the best endocrinology near me could help you find local doctors who treat your condition and are accepting new patients. You could also search the Endocrine Society’s physician directory.
What to Consider When Choosing an Endocrinologist
Your endocrinologist is a trusted partner in your health journey. They offer the support and personalized care you need to manage your conditions and stay healthy. It’s important to choose an endocrinologist that meets your unique needs. When choosing an endocrinologist in Connecticut, some things you might want to consider include:
- Experience with your condition: Endocrinologists may treat a range of endocrine conditions or focus their practice on a specific area, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders or infertility. Ask the doctor how often they treat people with your condition.
- Credentials: Look into where your potential endocrinologist went to medical school and whether or not they’re board-certified. Board certification demonstrates a doctor’s exceptional expertise in their specialty.
- Clinic location and hours: If you have a chronic endocrine condition, you’ll likely see your endocrinologist regularly. Choosing a clinic that’s located nearby and has convenient hours for your schedule can make it easier to get the care you need.
- Health insurance coverage: Health insurance is another practical consideration when choosing an endocrinologist in Connecticut. Check your health insurance to find out if your plan will cover the endocrinologist you want to see.
- Patient reviews: Reading online reviews can help you get information about how well the endocrinologist explains conditions and treatments, and whether patients feel like their concerns are addressed.
Endocrinology Near Me in Hamden, CT and Milford, CT
PACT Endocrinology is currently accepting new patients in our Hamden and Milford offices. Our experienced endocrinologist, Dr. James Case, is dedicated to providing individualized care to patients living with a wide range of endocrine conditions, including diabetes, osteoporosis, and thyroid disease. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Endocrinology and is a member of the Endocrine Society. To schedule your appointment with Dr. Case, call your desired location today.
