Your family medicine provider can treat most common infections, but you may be referred to an infectious disease specialist for a complex infection that’s hard to diagnose, is accompanied by a persistent high fever or is not responding to treatment.

Infectious disease doctors are experts in infections of the sinuses, heart, brain, lungs, urinary tract, bowel, bones and pelvic organs. Their training focuses on infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites.

Along with their unique knowledge, infectious disease specialists have added insight into the use of antibiotics and have training in immunology (how the body fights infection), epidemiology (how infections spread) and infection control.

Infectious disease doctors at Providence Medical Group will review your case history and study your medical records – including x-rays and lab reports. They may also perform a physical exam to determine the cause of your illness.

All appointments with infectious disease specialists are made by physician referral.