GP vs ENDOCRINOLOGIST

[t_lynn]

I have been told to see an endocrinologist instead of a general practioner regarding additional testing for diabetes.  Does anyone confirm this, or have an opion?

[gene d]

my 26 year old son had a gtt came back possitive, but then the c tap testc ame back ok now they wanthim to see an endocrinologist.  can this happen ,they told him he has diabetes, but the next appt. is 2 mo. away. how can this wait.     from   gene d

[WaveRider]

"I have been told to see an endocrinologist instead of a general practioner regarding additional testing for diabetes."

Who told this? It seems from the last part of your statement you have already been tested for diabetes and that your test results indicate specialized analysis. ie the Endo. In most cases you won't be able to see an Endo w/o a referral from your primary care physician.

What is an endocrinologist?
An endocrinologist is a specially trained doctor. Endocrinologists diagnose diseases that affect your glands. They know how to treat conditions that are often complex and involve many systems within your body. Your primary care doctor refers you to an endocrinologist when you have a problem with your endocrine system.

What do endocrinologists do?
Endocrinologists are trained to diagnose and treat hormone problems by helping to restore the normal balance of hormones in your system. Endocrinologists conduct basic research to learn the way glands work, and clinical research to learn the best methods to treat patients. Endocrinologists develop new drugs and treatments for hormone problems. They take care of many conditions including:
diabetes
thyroid diseases
metabolic disorders
over or under production of hormones
menopause
osteoporosis
hypertension
cholesterol (lipid) disorders
infertility
lack of growth (short stature)
cancers of the endocrine glands