From doctors to therapists, here are health professionals to be aware of.

The list of potential medical professionals you’ll meet during your life is long. Everyone should have a family doctor or primary care doctor.

Some people only need to see another type of doctor on occasion. Others, such as people with chronic conditions, may need to see additional doctors more frequently.

Keep reading to learn more about five doctors you’re likely to encounter in your lifetime.

An ENT doctor specializes in conditions and disorders that affect the areas in and around your ears, nose, and throat. This type of doctor is also known as an otolaryngologist.

How to find an ENT

If you think you need to see an ENT doctor, ask your family doctor or internist to refer you to one. An ENT doctor is a specialist, and some medical insurances require a referral from your general practitioner before they’ll pay for your visits to specialists.

If your general practitioner doesn’t have a recommendation for an ENT doctor, you can also contact your local hospital for a list of affiliated doctors. The American Board of Otolaryngology maintains a list of board-certified ENT doctors. You can also check your insurance company’s list of in-network providers to narrow down your choices. You can do this by calling your provider or searching for providers on their website.

A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of conditions that affect the:

  • skin
  • hair
  • nails
  • membranes lining your mouth, nose, and eyelids

Among other things, a dermatologist can conduct a full-body exam and check for signs of skin cancer, remove suspected cancer, and perform reconstructive surgery to hide scars.

Dermatologists also treat conditions like acne, plaque psoriasis, and hair loss. Some dermatologists may provide cosmetic procedures, such as injections and laser hair removal.

How to find a dermatologist

Ask your general doctor for a recommendation. You may also want to seek out professional organizations, such as the American Academy of Dermatology. Their list of dermatologists can help you find credible ones in your area.

You may also search your health insurance company’s list of preferred doctors. Make sure the doctor is board certified by the American Board of Dermatology.

A neurologist treats conditions and disorders of the nervous system. The nervous system is a vast network that’s responsible for many of the body’s major activities. Your nervous system includes the:

  • brain
  • spinal cord
  • nerves that connect to other parts of the body, such as ears, eyes, skin, and nose

How to find a neurologist

Your general practitioner may refer you to a neurologist if they suspect your problem is beyond their ability to diagnose and treat. Most people find a neurologist on their doctor’s recommendation.

If you want another option or don’t have a referral, first look to your insurance company’s list of preferred doctors. Compare your in-network options to recommendations from friends and colleagues. Be sure to check that the doctor is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

A podiatrist diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, leg, and their surrounding structures.

Podiatrists have specialized training to care for these parts of your body properly. Conditions they treat range from diabetic infections and bone loss to toenail fungus.

How to find a podiatrist

If your general doctor or primary care physician doesn’t recommend or refer you to a specific podiatrist, start by asking people you trust. Next, check your insurance company’s list of preferred doctors. Next, verify that the doctor or doctors whom you’re considering are board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine.

A physical therapist is a highly trained and licensed medical professional who provides many different types of services. Physical therapists work with people of all ages, sizes, and abilities.

How to find a physical therapist

If you need physical therapy following an accident or surgery, your primary doctor likely has a list of physical therapists they recommend. If they don’t or if you’d like another opinion, start by finding a list of physical therapists your insurance company covers.

Next, compare that list with physical therapists certified with the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. Ask friends and family members for recommendations, too. You may end up spending a lot of time with this medical professional, so take the time to find one you like and trust.

You’ll have many medical encounters in your lifetime, and you’re likely to encounter a variety of medical professionals.