What is the difference between a pulmonologist and a critical care doctor?

A pulmonologist focuses on diagnosing and treating lung diseases. A critical care doctor (intensivist) specializes in caring for very sick patients in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Do I need a referral to see a Pulmonary & Critical Care specialist?

It depends on your insurance plan; many HMO plans require a referral from your primary care physician, while PPO plans often do not.

What kinds of tests do these specialists perform?

They commonly perform pulmonary function tests (breathing tests), chest X-rays, CT scans, and sometimes procedures like bronchoscopy to look inside the lungs.

How often will I need to see a specialist for a chronic lung condition?

The frequency of visits varies based on your specific condition and its severity, usually ranging from every few months to once or twice a year.

Can a Pulmonary & Critical Care doctor help with sleep apnea?

Yes, many pulmonologists are also experts in sleep medicine and can diagnose and manage sleep-related breathing disorders like sleep apnea.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

It's helpful to bring a list of your current medications, any previous test results related to your lungs, and a summary of your medical history.

Find a Pulmonary & Critical Care Near You

40 verified pulmonary & critical care specialists are accepting patients. Compare ratings, insurance accepted, languages spoken, and telehealth options.

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Finding the right doctor for your breathing and lung health is a crucial step towards feeling better. Whether you're dealing with a long-term lung condition or facing a sudden, serious illness, a Pulmonary & Critical Care specialist is here to help. These highly trained doctors focus on your respiratory system – everything from your nose and throat to your lungs.

They diagnose and treat conditions that make it hard to breathe, such as asthma, COPD, and pneumonia, and also care for patients who are very sick and need intensive hospital care. This page will guide you through finding a skilled specialist near you, understanding what they do, and making informed choices about your care. We understand that health concerns can be worrying, and our goal is to connect you with compassionate experts who can provide the best possible support for your lung and critical care needs.

Conditions treated

Asthma
COPD
Pneumonia
Bronchitis
Cystic Fibrosis
Pulmonary Fibrosis
Sleep Apnea
Emphysema
Acute Respiratory Failure
Lung Cancer

Common procedures

Pulmonary Function Testing
Bronchoscopy
Thoracentesis
Mechanical Ventilation Management
Sleep Studies Interpretation
Oxygen Therapy Management
Critical Care Management
Medical Consultations

When to see a pulmonary & critical care

If you have persistent coughing or shortness of breath.
If you experience wheezing or chest tightness.
If you have been diagnosed with a lung condition.
If you are concerned about your breathing during sleep.
If you have frequent respiratory infections.
If your doctor recommends a lung specialist.

First visit

During your first visit, the specialist will thoroughly review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and discuss your symptoms in detail. They may order diagnostic tests like breathing tests or imaging scans to understand your condition better.

Typical cost

With insurance, typical out-of-pocket costs for a Pulmonary & Critical Care visit can range from a copay (e.g., $30-$100) to a deductible, depending on your plan.

Insurance

Most health insurance plans cover Pulmonary & Critical Care visits and procedures, especially when referred by a primary care physician.

How to choose the right pulmonary & critical care

1Check their board certification in Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine.
2Look for experience treating your specific condition or concerns.
3Verify they accept your health insurance plan.
4Consider if they offer telehealth appointments for follow-ups.
5Read patient reviews for insights on their communication style.
6Ask about their hospital affiliations and on-call services.
7Choose a doctor whose approach to care makes you feel comfortable.

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