What is a hepatologist and why do I need one?
A hepatologist is a physician who has obtained special training in liver diseases. All hepatologists are trained in general Internal Medicine (adult medicine) or Pediatrics (children’s medicine). They then undergo special training at a liver center. Hepatology training is one element of training in Gastroenterology, and all gastroenterologists should have basic skills in the management of liver diseases. Quite appropriately, many general gastroenterologists will list “Digestive and Liver Diseases” on their masthead or phone listings. However, hepatology is a rapidly changing field (new viruses, new treatments etc.). To ensure the highest level of care for liver diseases it is reasonable to seek physicians who have dedicated themselves to the discipline of Hepatology. These physicians devote 80% or more of their time to the study, treatment and management of liver diseases. Most large cities have one or more hepatologists. Many are affiliated with University based hospitals because of t
