Many physicians choose to specialize within various fields. As a medical assistant, you may be employed in a role to assist with specialized exams. This chapter introduces you to many of the specialties, their diseases and disorders, the types of exams involved, and how the medical assistant can assist with diagnostic testing by collecting and processing specimens. Certain specialized tests and how to correctly administer them are also included in this chapter.

Outline

• The Medical Assistant's Role in Specialty Exams
• Allergy
• Cardiology
• Dermatology
• Endocrinology
• Gastroenterology
• Neurology
• Oncology
• Ophthalmology
• Orthopedics
• Otology
• Surgery
• Urology

Learning Outcomes

After completing Chapter 40, you will be able to:

 40.1 Briefly describe the medical specialties of allergy, cardiology, dermatology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, neurology, oncology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, otology, surgery, and urology.
 40.2 Describe the types of exams and diagnostic tests performed in each of these specialties and the medical assistant's role in these exams and tests.
 40.3 Identify and describe the most common diseases and disorders seen in these medical specialties and typical treatments for them.
 40.4 Describe the medical assistant's duties in performing a scratch test.
 40.5 Describe the medical assistant's role in assisting with a sigmoidoscopy.
 40.6 Outline the medical assistant's responsibilities in preparing the ophthalmoscope for use.
 40.7 Describe the medical assistant's role in assisting with a needle biopsy.

Summary

As a medical assistant, you will find interesting and stimulating work in a specialty medical practice. Each specialty has precise requirements for knowledge and skills that are particular to that field of practice. All medical specialties require that you have a firm foundation in and understanding of basic principles and procedures.

You will need to familiarize yourself with the anatomy and physiology relevant to the specialty in which you work. You will assist with highly specialized exams, diagnostic testing, and modes of treatment. By working to understand the diseases and disorders common to the specialty you choose, you will develop the ability to better educate patients and respond to their concerns.