Why would I need to see a medical specialist?

A medical specialist is most important when seeking care for a specific systemic illness or health issue. For example, cardiac abnormalities should be treated with the care of a cardiologist while seizure disorders may require the management from a neurologist. Medical specialist often work hand in hand with surgical specialist for monitoring, evaluation and management of complicated patients. 

 You should see a specialist when your primary care physician recommends it. Most health issues can be initially managed by primary care physicians. When it gets more serious or complicated, diabetes, ulcers or colitis, etc., a referral to a specialist could be appropriate.