207P00000X Emergency Medicine Physician

Definition
An emergency physician focuses on the immediate decision making and action necessary to prevent death or any further disability both in the pre-hospital setting by directing emergency medical technicians and in the emergency department. The emergency physician provides immediate recognition, evaluation, care, stabilization and disposition of a generally diversified population of adult and pediatric patients in response to acute illness and injury.
Classification
Emergency Medicine
Section
Individual
Notes
Source: American Board of Medical Specialties, 2007. www.abms.org [7/1/2007: added definition, added source; 7/1/2011: modified source]<br/>Additional Resources: American Board of Emergency Medicine, 2007. http://www.abem.org/public/; American Osteopathic Board of Emergency Medicine, 2007. http://www.osteopathic.org/certification<br/>Board certification for Medical Doctors (MDs) is provided by the American Board of Emergency Medicine. Board certification for Doctors of Osteopathy (DOs) is provided by the American Osteopathic Board of Emergency Medicine.

Specializations

207PE0004X
Emergency Medical Services (Emergency Medicine) Physician
A medical professional who responds to emergencies outside the hospital, such as accidents, natural disasters, or during patient transport. They assess, stabilize, and treat people with serious injuries or sudden illnesses, including trauma, heart attacks, breathing problems, and other life-threatening conditions. Patients can expect quick, expert care at the scene and safe transport to the hospital if needed.
207PH0002X
Hospice and Palliative Medicine (Emergency Medicine) Physician
A doctor who specializes in emergency medicine and provides care for patients with serious, life-limiting illnesses. This physician focuses on relieving pain and symptoms, supporting emotional and spiritual needs, and helping patients and their families make decisions about care. They work with a team to improve comfort and quality of life, manage symptoms like pain or shortness of breath, and offer guidance during end-of-life situations.
207PT0002X
Medical Toxicology (Emergency Medicine) Physician
A healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating health problems caused by exposure to drugs, chemicals, plants, or environmental toxins. They help patients who have been poisoned, overdosed, or affected by harmful substances, and manage issues like drug reactions, accidental ingestions, workplace exposures, and bites or stings from venomous animals. Patients can expect expert care in emergencies and guidance on how to prevent future toxic exposures.
207PP0204X
Pediatric Emergency Medicine (Emergency Medicine) Physician
A healthcare provider who specializes in emergency care for infants, children, and teenagers. They diagnose and treat urgent medical problems such as breathing difficulties, high fevers, severe infections, injuries, allergic reactions, and other sudden illnesses. Patients can expect quick assessments, pain management, treatments for wounds or broken bones, and coordination with other specialists if needed, all focused on the unique needs of children in emergency situations.
207PS0010X
Sports Medicine (Emergency Medicine) Physician
A healthcare provider who is trained in emergency medicine and specializes in sports medicine, caring for athletes and active individuals with injuries such as sprains, fractures, concussions, and overuse conditions. They focus on quick assessment and treatment of sports-related injuries, help manage pain, guide safe return to activity, and provide advice on injury prevention, exercise, and healthy living. Patients can expect expert care for both urgent injuries and ongoing health concerns related to physical activity.
207PE0005X
Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine (Emergency Medicine) Physician
A healthcare provider who specializes in treating injuries and illnesses related to diving, underwater activities, and exposure to different air pressures. They use special therapies, such as hyperbaric oxygen treatment, to help with conditions like decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, slow-healing wounds, and certain infections. Patients can expect expert care for emergencies from diving or working in unusual environments, as well as guidance on prevention and safety.