Medical Condition Treatment Costs
Estimated costs for treating 140 medical conditions across 34 body systems. Each condition includes typical procedures, cost ranges by severity, and Medicare rates.
Orthopedic/Musculoskeletal
20 conditions
ACL Tear
An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tear is a common knee injury, especially in athletes. The ACL is one of the key ligaments that stabilize the knee joint. Most complete tears require surgical reconstruction followed by months of rehabilitation.
Ankle Fracture / Ankle Surgery
Ankle fractures range from simple breaks that may heal with a cast to complex fractures requiring surgical repair with plates and screws. They are among the most common fractures seen in emergency departments, often caused by twisting injuries, falls, or car accidents.
Back Pain (Chronic Low Back Pain)
Chronic low back pain is persistent pain in the lower back lasting more than 12 weeks. It is one of the most common reasons for doctor visits and missed work. Causes range from muscle strain and arthritis to disc problems and spinal stenosis.
Bone Fracture
A bone fracture is a break in a bone ranging from a thin crack to a complete break. Fractures are commonly caused by falls, sports injuries, and car accidents. Treatment depends on the type and location of the fracture.
Bunion (Hallux Valgus)
A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to push against the next toe. Bunions develop slowly and can become painful, making it difficult to wear shoes or walk comfortably. Surgery is considered when conservative treatments fail.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome causes numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand due to pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. It is common in people who perform repetitive hand motions. Treatment ranges from wrist splinting to surgical release.
Cervical Disc Disease / Neck Pain
Cervical disc disease involves degeneration or herniation of discs in the neck, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, and arms. It is a common cause of neck pain especially as people age. Treatment ranges from physical therapy to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory, and mood issues. It amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way the brain processes pain signals. Treatment focuses on symptom management with a multidisciplinary approach.
Gout
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by excess uric acid that crystallizes in joints, causing sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness. It most commonly affects the big toe. Medications can prevent future attacks and dissolve uric acid deposits.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the outer casing, potentially irritating or compressing nearby nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg depending on the location.
Hip Replacement
Hip replacement surgery removes the damaged hip joint and replaces it with an artificial joint made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. It is most commonly performed for severe arthritis but may also be needed after hip fractures or other conditions.
Knee Replacement
Knee replacement surgery resurfaces a knee damaged by arthritis with metal and plastic components. It is one of the most common orthopedic surgeries performed. Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility after recovery.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, caused by wear-and-tear breakdown of joint cartilage over time. It most often affects hands, knees, hips, and spine. While damage cannot be reversed, treatment can reduce pain and improve function.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle, so fragile that a fall or even mild stresses like bending over can cause a fracture. It is most common in older women after menopause. Treatment includes medications that slow bone loss and lifestyle modifications.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the lining of joints, causing painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity. Early treatment with disease-modifying drugs can slow progression.
Rotator Cuff Tear
A rotator cuff tear is a common shoulder injury involving damage to the tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Tears can be partial or complete and may result from injury or gradual wear. Treatment ranges from physical therapy to surgical repair.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that most often occurs during the growth spurt before puberty. Mild scoliosis may only need monitoring, while moderate cases use bracing to prevent worsening. Severe curves may require spinal fusion surgery.
Shoulder Surgery (Labral Repair / Shoulder Instability)
Shoulder instability and labral tears often result from dislocations or repetitive overhead motions. The labrum is a ring of cartilage around the shoulder socket. Arthroscopic repair (Bankart repair) is common for recurrent dislocations. Recovery typically takes 4-6 months.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces within the spine that can put pressure on the nerves traveling through it. Most commonly caused by age-related wear, it can cause pain, numbness, muscle weakness, and problems with bladder or bowel function.
Whiplash (Cervical Strain)
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden, forceful back-and-forth movement of the neck, most commonly from rear-end car crashes. Symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and sometimes dizziness or memory problems. Most people recover within weeks to months.
Digestive/GI
11 conditions
Abdominal / Pelvic Pain (Undiagnosed)
Abdominal or pelvic pain is one of the most common reasons for emergency department visits and doctor consultations. The workup to identify the cause can involve various tests from blood work to imaging to endoscopy, as many different conditions can cause these symptoms.
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. It typically causes sudden, severe abdominal pain and is a medical emergency. Standard treatment is surgical removal of the appendix (appendectomy).
Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive tract, most commonly the small intestine and colon. It causes inflammation, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and malnutrition. There is no cure, but therapies can greatly reduce symptoms.
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
GERD is a chronic digestive disease in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. While lifestyle changes and medications help most people, some cases require surgical intervention.
Gallbladder Disease (Gallstones/Cholecystitis)
Gallbladder disease includes gallstones and inflammation (cholecystitis). Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can block bile ducts, causing sudden intense pain. Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is the most common treatment.
Hernia (Inguinal/Ventral/Hiatal)
A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Inguinal (groin) hernias are most common. While not always dangerous, hernias generally do not improve on their own and often require surgical repair.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a common chronic disorder affecting the large intestine, causing cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. Unlike IBD, it does not cause changes in bowel tissue or increase colorectal cancer risk. Symptom management through diet, lifestyle, and medication is the primary approach.
Liver Disease (Cirrhosis/Hepatitis)
Liver disease encompasses conditions that damage the liver, including hepatitis (viral inflammation), cirrhosis (scarring), and fatty liver disease. The liver is essential for detoxification, protein synthesis, and digestion. Severe cases may require liver transplant.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that can be acute (sudden onset) or chronic (progressive damage). Acute pancreatitis is usually caused by gallstones or heavy alcohol use. Symptoms include severe upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Peptic Ulcer Disease
Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach or upper small intestine. The most common causes are H. pylori infection and long-term use of NSAIDs. Symptoms include burning stomach pain, bloating, and nausea. Most heal with medication.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Symptoms include bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and urgency. Treatment aims to reduce inflammation and maintain remission.
Cardiovascular
10 conditions
Aortic Aneurysm
An aortic aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of the aorta, the body's largest artery. If it ruptures, it can cause life-threatening internal bleeding. Many aneurysms grow slowly and may never rupture, but large or fast-growing ones may need surgical repair.
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular, often rapid heart rhythm that can lead to blood clots, stroke, and heart failure. It is the most common type of heart arrhythmia. Treatment focuses on controlling heart rate, restoring normal rhythm, and preventing blood clots.
Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease (CAD) develops when the major blood vessels supplying the heart become damaged or diseased, usually due to plaque buildup. It is the most common type of heart disease and the leading cause of death in the United States.
Deep Vein Thrombosis / Pulmonary Embolism
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg. If the clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs, it becomes a pulmonary embolism (PE), which can be life-threatening. Treatment involves blood thinners and sometimes clot-dissolving drugs.
Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is blocked, usually by a blood clot. Without quick treatment, the affected heart muscle begins to die. Heart attacks are a leading cause of death but survival rates have improved dramatically with modern treatments.
Heart Failure (Congestive Heart Failure)
Heart failure is a chronic condition where the heart cannot pump blood efficiently enough to meet the body's needs. Symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs. While not curable, it can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes.
Heart Valve Disease
Heart valve disease occurs when one or more of the four heart valves do not work properly, either not opening fully (stenosis) or not closing properly (regurgitation). This can reduce blood flow or cause blood to leak backward, straining the heart.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Hypertension is persistently elevated blood pressure that forces the heart to work harder than normal. Often called the 'silent killer' because it usually has no symptoms, it significantly increases risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure if untreated.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Peripheral artery disease is a circulatory condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most commonly the legs. It can cause leg pain when walking (claudication) and increases risk of heart attack and stroke. Severe cases may require bypass surgery or amputation.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen, twisted veins that often appear on the legs and feet. They occur when valves in the veins do not work properly, causing blood to pool. While often a cosmetic concern, they can cause aching pain and lead to more serious problems.
Cancer/Oncology
10 conditions
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer forms in the cells of the breast and is the most common cancer in women. Early detection through screening mammograms greatly improves outcomes. Treatment typically involves surgery, and may include radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy.
Colon Cancer (Colorectal Cancer)
Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum and is the third most common cancer. Regular screening colonoscopies starting at age 45 can detect and remove precancerous polyps. When caught early, colorectal cancer is highly treatable.
Kidney Cancer (Renal Cell Carcinoma)
Kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma) forms in the lining of the kidney's small tubes. It is often found incidentally on imaging done for other reasons. When caught early, it is usually curable with surgery. Advanced disease is treated with targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
Leukemia
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood-forming tissues, including bone marrow. It leads to overproduction of abnormal white blood cells. There are several types, some progressing quickly (acute) and others more slowly (chronic). Treatment often includes chemotherapy and may require stem cell transplant.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. It forms in the tissues of the lungs, usually in cells lining the air passages. Smoking is the primary risk factor. Treatment depends on the type and stage and may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system. The two main types are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Many lymphomas are highly treatable.
Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer begins in the tissues of the pancreas and is one of the most aggressive cancers with a low survival rate. It often goes undetected until advanced stages because symptoms are vague. Treatment may include surgery (Whipple procedure), chemotherapy, and radiation.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men (excluding skin cancer). Many prostate cancers grow slowly and may need only monitoring. More aggressive forms require surgery, radiation, or other treatments. PSA blood tests and digital exams aid early detection.
Skin Cancer (Melanoma)
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, developing in melanocytes (pigment-producing cells). While less common than other skin cancers, it is more dangerous because it can spread to other organs. Early detection and removal are key to survival.
Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer is a growth of cells in the thyroid gland. Most types grow slowly, are highly treatable, and have excellent survival rates. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the thyroid (thyroidectomy), sometimes followed by radioactive iodine therapy.
Neurological
9 conditions
Alzheimer's Disease / Dementia
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory, thinking skills, and the ability to carry out simple tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia. While there is no cure, newer treatments may slow progression in early stages.
Concussion / Traumatic Brain Injury
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. Symptoms include headache, confusion, memory problems, and dizziness. Most people recover fully, but repeated concussions or severe TBI can have lasting effects.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It affects people of all ages and can often be controlled with medication. Some cases may benefit from surgery.
Migraines
Migraines are intense, throbbing headaches often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. They can last hours to days and significantly impact quality of life. Both preventive and acute treatments are available.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, disrupting communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Symptoms vary widely and may include vision problems, fatigue, numbness, and difficulty walking.
Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. It develops gradually, often starting with a barely noticeable tremor in one hand. While there is no cure, medications can significantly improve symptoms.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, causing weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in the hands and feet. Diabetes is the most common cause. Treatment focuses on managing the underlying condition and relieving symptoms.
Spinal Cord Injury
A spinal cord injury is damage to the spinal cord that results in temporary or permanent changes in sensation, movement, strength, and body functions below the injury site. It can result in paraplegia or quadriplegia. Lifetime costs are among the highest of any injury.
Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident)
A stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. There are two main types: ischemic (blocked artery) and hemorrhagic (burst blood vessel). Rapid treatment is critical to minimize brain damage.
Mental Health
7 conditions
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders, often first diagnosed in childhood and frequently lasting into adulthood. It includes persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning. Both medication and behavioral therapy are effective treatments.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. They involve excessive fear or worry that interferes with daily activities. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness, affecting 40 million adults annually.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder causes extreme mood swings between emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These episodes affect sleep, energy, behavior, and the ability to think clearly. Lifelong treatment with mood stabilizers and therapy is usually necessary.
Depression (Major Depressive Disorder)
Major depressive disorder is more than just feeling sad — it is a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest that interferes with daily functioning. It affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. It is one of the most common mental health conditions worldwide.
Eating Disorders (Anorexia/Bulimia)
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions involving persistent eating behaviors that negatively impact health, emotions, and ability to function. Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder are the most common types. Early treatment significantly improves outcomes.
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
PTSD develops after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Effective treatments are available, including trauma-focused therapy and medication.
Substance Use Disorder
Substance use disorders involve the recurrent use of alcohol and/or drugs that causes significant impairment, including health problems, disability, and failure to meet responsibilities. Treatment combines behavioral therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and support groups.
Reproductive
7 conditions
Cesarean Section (C-Section)
A cesarean section is a surgical procedure to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus. It may be planned in advance or performed as an emergency during labor. C-sections account for about one-third of all deliveries in the United States.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic tissue. It causes pain, especially during periods, and can lead to fertility problems. Diagnosis often takes years.
Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is surgical removal of the uterus, sometimes including the cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. It is performed for conditions including fibroids, endometriosis, cancer, and abnormal bleeding. It is the second most common surgery for women after cesarean delivery.
Infertility
Infertility is the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse (or 6 months for women over 35). It affects about 1 in 8 couples. Causes can be male, female, or unexplained. Treatment ranges from medication to assisted reproductive technology.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when pelvic floor muscles weaken, allowing pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, rectum) to drop from their normal position. It is common after childbirth and menopause. Treatment includes pelvic floor exercises, pessary devices, or surgical repair.
Pregnancy and Vaginal Childbirth
Pregnancy and childbirth involve approximately 9 months of prenatal care followed by labor and delivery. Routine prenatal care includes regular checkups, blood tests, ultrasounds, and screenings. Vaginal delivery is the most common method of childbirth.
Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. They are extremely common, affecting up to 80% of women by age 50. Many are asymptomatic, but some cause heavy periods, pelvic pain, and reproductive issues.
Urological
6 conditions
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH / Enlarged Prostate)
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that is extremely common in older men. It can cause urinary symptoms including difficulty starting urination, weak stream, frequent urination, and inability to completely empty the bladder.
Bladder Conditions (Incontinence/Overactive Bladder)
Bladder conditions include overactive bladder (OAB), urinary incontinence, and interstitial cystitis. These conditions cause frequent, urgent, or uncontrolled urination and significantly impact quality of life. Multiple treatment options exist from behavioral therapy to surgery.
Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease is the gradual loss of kidney function over time. In advanced stages, dangerous levels of fluid and waste can build up in the body. Early stages may have few symptoms but advanced disease requires dialysis or kidney transplant.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. It becomes more common with age and can be an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease. Treatment options include oral medications, injections, vacuum devices, and penile implants.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can cause excruciating pain when passing through the urinary tract. Small stones may pass on their own, while larger ones may require procedures to break them up or remove them.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
A urinary tract infection is an infection in any part of the urinary system, most commonly the bladder and urethra. UTIs are very common, especially in women. Most are easily treated with antibiotics, but recurrent or complicated UTIs may need further evaluation.
Endocrine
5 conditions
Adrenal Disorders (Addison's/Cushing's)
Adrenal disorders involve the adrenal glands producing too much or too little hormone. Addison's disease means insufficient cortisol production; Cushing's syndrome means too much. Both require careful diagnosis and lifelong management.
Obesity / Bariatric Surgery
Obesity is a complex disease involving an excessive amount of body fat that increases risk of many health problems. When diet and exercise are insufficient, bariatric surgery (gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy) can produce significant weight loss and improvement in obesity-related conditions.
Thyroid Disorders
Thyroid disorders include hypothyroidism (underactive), hyperthyroidism (overactive), thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer. The thyroid gland controls metabolism, energy, and growth. Most thyroid conditions are highly treatable with medication or surgery.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas produces little or no insulin. It typically appears in childhood or adolescence but can develop at any age. Patients require lifelong insulin therapy, blood sugar monitoring, and careful dietary management.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition affecting how the body processes blood sugar (glucose). The body either resists the effects of insulin or does not produce enough. It is the most common form of diabetes and is closely linked to obesity and lifestyle factors.
Respiratory
5 conditions
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic condition in which the airways narrow, swell, and produce extra mucus, making breathing difficult. It causes wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. While incurable, asthma can be well-controlled with proper medication.
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
COPD is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It is most commonly caused by long-term exposure to cigarette smoke. Treatment can help control symptoms and slow progression.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Symptoms include cough with phlegm, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.
Pulmonary Fibrosis (Interstitial Lung Disease)
Pulmonary fibrosis occurs when lung tissue becomes damaged and scarred, making it progressively harder to breathe. The thickened, stiff tissue prevents the lungs from working properly. In many cases the cause is unknown (idiopathic). Lung transplant may be needed.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea, occurs when throat muscles relax and block the airway. It can cause loud snoring, daytime fatigue, and increase risk of heart problems.
Multiple
5 conditions
Bicycle Crash Injuries
Injuries to cyclists struck by motor vehicles or in bicycle crashes. Road rash, fractures, and head injuries are common.
Construction Fall Injuries
Injuries from falls at height in construction settings. The leading cause of death in construction industry. Often involves multiple trauma.
Pedestrian Impact Injuries
Injuries sustained by pedestrians struck by motor vehicles. Typically involve multiple body regions with high severity due to lack of protection.
Slip and Fall Injuries
Injuries resulting from falls on the same level, typically in commercial or public spaces. Common basis for premises liability claims.
Soft Tissue / Contusions
Bruises, sprains, strains, and other soft tissue injuries. Most common injury type in motor vehicle crashes. Usually resolves with conservative treatment.
Eye
5 conditions
Cataracts
A cataract is a clouding of the eye's natural lens, causing blurry vision, faded colors, and difficulty seeing at night. Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide but are easily treatable with surgery, which replaces the cloudy lens with an artificial one.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to abnormally high pressure in the eye. It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Glaucoma often has no early symptoms, making regular eye exams crucial for early detection.
LASIK / Vision Correction Surgery
LASIK is an elective laser eye surgery that reshapes the cornea to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contacts. It is one of the most commonly performed elective surgeries worldwide.
Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Age-related macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss in people over 50, affecting the central part of the retina (macula). Dry AMD is more common and progresses slowly; wet AMD is less common but more aggressive, causing rapid vision loss without treatment.
Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment is a medical emergency where the retina pulls away from its normal position at the back of the eye. Without prompt treatment, it can cause permanent vision loss. Symptoms include sudden flashes of light, floaters, and a curtain-like shadow over vision.
Dermatology
5 conditions
Cellulitis / Skin Infection
Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection that causes redness, swelling, warmth, and pain in the affected area. It most often affects the lower legs but can occur anywhere. Mild cases respond to oral antibiotics; severe cases may need IV antibiotics and hospitalization.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Eczema is a chronic condition that makes the skin red, itchy, and inflamed. It is most common in children but can occur at any age. While there is no cure, treatment and self-care can relieve itching and prevent new outbreaks. It often runs in families.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes rapid buildup of skin cells, resulting in thick, red, scaly patches that can be itchy and painful. It is not contagious. Treatment options range from topical creams to light therapy to biologic medications.
Skin Cancer (Non-Melanoma: Basal Cell / Squamous Cell)
Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are the most common types of skin cancer, far more common than melanoma. They are usually caused by UV exposure and are highly treatable when caught early. Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rate for most cases.
Wound Care (Complex/Chronic Wounds)
Complex and chronic wounds include diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers, venous leg ulcers, and surgical wound complications that fail to heal within the expected timeframe. Specialized wound care involves debridement, negative pressure therapy, and skin substitutes.
Preventive
4 conditions
Annual Physical Exam (Wellness Visit)
An annual physical exam is a yearly preventive healthcare visit to assess overall health, screen for conditions, update immunizations, and discuss lifestyle factors. Under the ACA, most insurance plans cover annual wellness visits at no cost to the patient.
Screening Colonoscopy
A screening colonoscopy examines the entire colon for polyps and early signs of colorectal cancer. It is recommended for all adults starting at age 45 (or earlier with risk factors). During the procedure, polyps can be removed before they become cancerous, making it both diagnostic and preventive.
Screening Mammogram
A screening mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast used to detect cancer before symptoms appear. It is recommended annually or biennially for women starting at age 40-50 depending on guidelines. Early detection through mammography significantly improves breast cancer survival rates.
Vaccinations and Immunizations
Vaccines protect against infectious diseases by stimulating the immune system. The CDC recommends vaccinations from birth through adulthood including flu, COVID-19, shingles, pneumonia, and others. Most preventive vaccines are covered at no cost under the ACA.
Dental
4 conditions
Dental Crown
A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are used after root canals, for large fillings, cracked teeth, or cosmetic improvement. Modern crowns can be made of porcelain, ceramic, or metal.
Dental Implant
A dental implant is a titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. A crown is then attached to the implant. Implants look and function like natural teeth and are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth.
Root Canal
A root canal is a dental procedure to treat infection at the center of a tooth. The infected pulp is removed, the canal is cleaned and shaped, then filled and sealed. A crown is usually placed afterward. It saves the natural tooth from extraction.
Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. It may be needed for severely decayed, damaged, or crowded teeth. Wisdom tooth removal is the most common extraction procedure, often performed on adolescents and young adults.
Pediatric
3 conditions
Ear Tube Insertion (Myringotomy)
Ear tube insertion (myringotomy with tube placement) is one of the most common childhood surgeries. Small tubes are placed in the eardrum to allow fluid to drain from the middle ear, treating recurrent ear infections and hearing issues caused by persistent fluid.
Pediatric Asthma
Asthma is the most common chronic disease in children, causing wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Triggers include allergies, exercise, cold air, and respiratory infections. With proper management, most children with asthma lead active, normal lives.
Well-Child Visits (Pediatric Preventive Care)
Well-child visits are regular checkups for infants, children, and adolescents to monitor development, growth, and health. They include physical exams, immunizations, developmental screenings, and anticipatory guidance for parents. The AAP recommends frequent visits in the first few years of life.
Infectious Disease
3 conditions
HIV / AIDS
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system, specifically CD4 cells. Without treatment, it can lead to AIDS. Modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus to undetectable levels, allowing people with HIV to live long, healthy lives with near-normal life expectancy.
Hepatitis B & C
Hepatitis B and C are viral infections that attack the liver. Hepatitis B can become chronic but is preventable with a vaccine. Hepatitis C was once considered incurable but can now be cured in over 95% of cases with direct-acting antiviral medications.
Sepsis
Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency caused by the body's extreme response to infection. Without rapid treatment, it can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Sepsis requires immediate hospitalization with IV antibiotics and supportive care.
ENT
3 conditions
Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can be caused by aging, noise exposure, infections, or genetic factors. It ranges from mild difficulty hearing soft sounds to profound deafness. Treatment options include hearing aids, cochlear implants, and surgical correction depending on the type and severity.
Sinus Surgery (Chronic Sinusitis)
Chronic sinusitis involves prolonged inflammation and swelling of the sinuses lasting 12 weeks or more despite treatment. When medications fail, functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) can open blocked sinuses and improve drainage. It is one of the most common ENT procedures.
Tonsillectomy / Adenoidectomy
Tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of the tonsils, sometimes combined with removal of the adenoids (adenoidectomy). It is commonly performed for recurrent tonsillitis, obstructive sleep apnea in children, and peritonsillar abscess. It remains one of the most common childhood surgeries.
Immunology
2 conditions
Allergies (Allergic Rhinitis / Anaphylaxis)
Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) causes sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes. Severe allergies can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening emergency. Treatment includes avoidance, medications, and immunotherapy (allergy shots).
Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus)
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissue throughout the body, including joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart, and lungs. It causes inflammation, pain, and damage. Flares and remissions are characteristic of the disease.
Multiple / Skin
2 conditions
Burns (Thermal / Chemical)
Burn injuries from vehicle fires, fuel ignition, chemical exposure, or airbag burns. Severity ranges from superficial to full-thickness burns requiring grafting.
Dog Bite Injuries
Bite wounds and related injuries from dog attacks. Can cause severe lacerations, infections, nerve damage, and psychological trauma.
Pleura / Peritoneum
1 conditions
Skin / Eyes
1 conditions
Respiratory System
1 conditions
Upper / Lower Extremity
1 conditions
Face / Jaw
1 conditions
Abdomen / Thorax
1 conditions
Knee
1 conditions
Systemic / Neurological
1 conditions
Thoracic / Lumbar Spine
1 conditions
Upper Extremity / Wrist
1 conditions
Chest / Thorax
1 conditions
Shoulder
1 conditions
Head / Brain
1 conditions
Cervical Spine
1 conditions