Adding to the Confusion: Other Specialists

Some health care practitioners receive specialized training in one area of medicine but are neither medical doctors, doctors of osteopathy, nor nurses. Usually, they are licensed and certified in their specialty.

Audiologists evaluate the type and degree of hearing loss using a wide variety of tests. They prescribe and fit hearing aids. They also evaluate dizziness and provide balance training. They have a masters degree or doctorate in audiology and have completed a clinical internship.

Gerontologists have a masters degree or doctorate in gerontology—the study of the aging process, including physical, mental, and social changes. Gerontologists analyze information about older people to develop strategies and programs for improving their lives. They may work directly with older people or do research about them. Some gerontologists also have a medical degree and are geriatricians.

Orthotists fit braces and other supportive devices. They may be involved in rehabilitation.

Opticians translate an ophthalmologist's or optometrist's prescription into glasses or contact lenses that are suitable for a person's lifestyle and visual needs. They may grind the lenses of glasses and fit the lenses into the frame. To fit contact lenses, they measure the curve of the eye.

Optometrists are doctors of optometry—the evaluation of vision and use of lenses to correct vision. They perform the same functions as ophthalmologists except they do not prescribe drugs or perform surgery. However, they may care for people just before and just after surgery.

Podiatrists are doctors of podiatry. They diagnose and treat disorders of the foot and ankle and perform surgery on the foot.

Prosthetists fit replacements for body parts. They may be involved in rehabilitation.

Psychologists are doctors of psychology. They use talk therapies (counseling) to help people with phobias, depression, or emotional or family problems. In most states, they, unlike psychiatrists, cannot prescribe drugs.