Specialty2 min read

Endocrinology and diabetes

Detail level

An endocrinologist treats endocrine gland problems such as diabetes, as well as hormonal and metabolic disorders.

The NIDDK dictionary defines an endocrinologist as a doctor who treats problems of the endocrine glands such as diabetes, and MedlinePlus describes them as specialising in hormonal and metabolic disorders, including diabetes. On this site, the pages on both types of diabetes, prediabetes, hypoglycaemia and the pancreas are linked to it.

The American Board of Medical Specialties classifies "endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism" as a subspecialty certificate within internal medicine (ABMS). This page does not mean that everyone with diabetes needs a specialist; many cases of diabetes are followed by a primary care provider, and the patient is referred when needed.

In one minute¹²³

What is it?: A medical specialty in endocrine glands, hormones and diabetes.
Who is usually affected?: People with diabetes or a hormonal or metabolic disorder that needs specialist assessment.
Acute or chronic?: Often long-term follow-up.
Main symptoms: Thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, weight loss (which may prompt a blood sugar test).
Red flags?: Not directly applicable; see the disease pages.
Preventable?: Controlling blood sugar and lifestyle according to the plan.

What is it?

Endocrinologist: "a doctor who treats people with problems of the endocrine glands such as diabetes" (NIDDK). MedlinePlus describes this specialist as concerned with hormonal and metabolic disorders, including diabetes.

Conditions it covers

The conditions linked to it on this site: type 2 diabetes, type 1 diabetes, prediabetes, hypoglycaemia. The related organ: the pancreas. The difference between the two types is compared.

When to see one

Referral to the specialist is usually decided by the primary care provider according to the condition (MedlinePlus). Endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism is classified as a subspecialty certificate within internal medicine by ABMS.

Common questions

Do I need an endocrinologist for any diabetes?

Not necessarily; MedlinePlus indicates that a primary care provider may refer you to a specialist when needed.²

Questions for your doctor

Does my condition need specialist follow-up?
What tests are done by the specialist?
What can be followed up with the family doctor?

References

1
NIDDK. Endocrinologist — Dictionary definition. www.niddk.nih.gov/Dictionary/E/endocrinologist
Health agencies & guidelines · Accessed 2026-10-06
2
MedlinePlus. Types of health care providers. medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001933.htm
Health agencies & guidelines · Accessed 2026-10-06
3
American Board of Medical Specialties. Specialty and Subspecialty Certificates. www.abms.org/member-boards/specialty-subspecialty-certificates/
Educational & historical references · Accessed 2026-10-06

Review status: Edited content · Last updated: 2026-10-06

Change log

2026-10-06 — Page created.

Educational content only — no diagnosis, and no substitute for a clinician.

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