Hepatologists (Liver Specialists) in Cleveland–Akron, OH

How to choose a hepatologist

A hepatologist is a doctor who focuses on the liver, gallbladder and bile ducts. People see one for hepatitis B or C, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, autoimmune liver disease, primary biliary cholangitis, liver cancer and abnormal liver tests [2]. Most get a referral from a primary care doctor or a gastroenterologist.

Know that many GI doctors treat the liver. Hepatology is part of gastroenterology. Most hepatologists trained first as gastroenterologists, and many general GI doctors manage common liver problems such as fatty liver disease and hepatitis C. That's why some doctors in this directory are also listed as gastroenterologists. If your liver problem is mild or stable, a GI doctor may be all you need.

Start with the kind of liver care you need.

• General hepatologists manage long-term liver conditions, track liver health over time and treat hepatitis.
• Transplant hepatologists care for people with advanced liver disease, before and after a liver transplant.

Check credentials. The American Board of Internal Medicine certifies doctors in gastroenterology and in transplant hepatology. A doctor must be certified in gastroenterology before taking the transplant hepatology exam. You can look up any doctor's certification for free on the ABIM website [1]. Our listings show the credentials doctors report in the federal NPI registry, but we don't verify board certification.

Ask about transplant ties if your disease is advanced. If you have cirrhosis, ask whether the practice works with a liver transplant center. A transplant starts with a referral to a transplant center, where a team decides if you're a candidate [3]. A practice linked to a center can make that step smoother.

Confirm insurance before you book. Practices change the plans they accept, so call the office or check your insurer's directory. HMO plans usually need a referral first. Medicare Part B covers medically necessary specialist visits; you typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after your deductible [6].

Plan for distance. Liver specialists are fewer than other doctors, and many work at large hospitals. You may need to travel for a first visit. Ask whether follow-up visits can be done by video or with your local doctor.

Know when not to wait. Cirrhosis can cause bleeding from swollen veins in the esophagus or stomach [4]. Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, or black, tar-like stool, needs emergency care, not an appointment [5]. Call 911.