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Real members of myPBCteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I see a gastro doc that I love and my levels are controlled for the now. I tried to find a Hepatologist (Sp?) but there are zero in my city.

A myPBCteam Member asked a question 💭
Tulsa, OK

The closest Hepatologist is an hour away. Do I NEED one or is the gastro doc ok?

March 18
 · 
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A myPBCteam Member

My PCP advised that I see a local GI doctor. He is highly recommended. He also said
that there are specialists in Charleston SC but I am not ready for that.

March 18
A myPBCteam Member

You need to find a hospital committed to doing/supporting pbc research. They will have cutting edge info for their heps and for your online research My 2 online sources are Cleveland Clinic and Mayo. When u have a specific question go to the hospital website and ask them the the question. This makes you the concierge of your rare disease. Remember,there may never be a cure for what we have. Your goal is to minimize the impact of pbc on our lifestyle! Mind and body comfort is the target!

March 22
myPBCteam

Do you need a hepatologist if your gastroenterologist is managing your PBC well?

It's great that you love your gastro doc and your levels are controlled! Since all hepatologists are gastroenterologists who specialize in the digestive system, and the liver is part of that system, many people with PBC are successfully Show Full Answer

Do you need a hepatologist if your gastroenterologist is managing your PBC well?

It's great that you love your gastro doc and your levels are controlled! Since all hepatologists are gastroenterologists who specialize in the digestive system, and the liver is part of that system, many people with PBC are successfully managed by gastroenterologists.

However, a hepatologist specifically focuses on liver diseases, and some even specialize in PBC. This specialized expertise can be particularly valuable as PBC progresses or if complications arise.

Here are some things to consider:

- If your current doctor is knowledgeable about PBC and your condition remains stable, continuing with them may work well
- You might consider seeing a hepatologist periodically (even if it's an hour away) for consultations while maintaining regular care with your gastro doc
- A hepatologist becomes more important if you develop complications, need advanced treatment options, or if a liver transplant becomes necessary
- Having a hepatologist review your case occasionally could provide additional peace of mind and ensure you're getting cutting-edge PBC care

The most important factor is having a doctor who listens to you, understands PBC, and keeps up with current treatments. If your gastroenterologist meets these needs and you feel confident in their care, that relationship is valuable.

March 18
A myPBCteam Member

Thank you so much!!

March 21

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