The allergist is a physician who is first trained in a basic specialty, such as internal medicine or pediatrics, and then completed a second training period, typically two years or longer, in allergic disease diagnosis and treatment. This leads to board certification by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology. While any physician may treat allergies, it is the trained Board-Certified Allergist/ Immunologist who is an expert on allergies and the physician best able to apply the latest knowledge, techniques, and tools needed to not only determine what is causing the allergic problem but also how best to remedy it.
Finding the Best Allergist
Let's assume that you have an allergy or an allergy-related condition and that you want the best possible treatment. Where do you start?
Step 1. The first thing to do is make sure that you will receive treatment by a trained allergist. You may call the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (or contact it via the Internet at www.allergy.mcg.edu) to get a list of members in your area. If you are in a health plan that requires authorization, a firm request from your primary care physician for a referral to an Allergist/Immunologist is helpful. Insurance plans list physicians by specialty. Under "allergy" or "allergy and immunology," you will find specialists on your insurance company's approved provider list. Sometimes Board certification will be noted on your insurance company's listings; if not, you can call the insurance company and request this information.
