About endocrinologists

An endocrinologist is a medical doctor with special training and skills in disorders that involve the endocrine system.

The endocrine system is a complex group of organs – called endocrine glands – that make hormones and pass them into the bloodstream. The glands in the endocrine system include the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid gland, adrenal glands, ovaries, testes and pancreas.

Hormones control many functions in our body including reproduction, metabolism, growth, sleep and development. When the normal balance of hormones in the body is upset for some reason, endocrinologists help to understand why and get the balance back.

Paediatric endocrinologists specialise in hormonal problems that affect children, especially in relation to growth, diabetes and metabolism.

If your child has health or development concerns, health professionals like endocrinologists are there to care for your child and help you understand your child’s condition and treatment. With the support and expertise of these professionals, you can help your child thrive.

Why your child might see an endocrinologist

Your child might see an endocrinologist if it looks like they have a condition like type-1 diabetes, type-2 diabetes, a metabolic disorder, thyroid disease, changed hormone production or slow growth. Your child might also see an endocrinologist about bone disorders like osteogenesis imperfecta.

The endocrinologist will use blood tests of your child’s hormone levels to assess how well your child’s endocrine system is working. Treatment for problems of the endocrine system often involves medication, which can either increase or decrease hormone levels.

If your child has an endocrine disorder, they might need to see an endocrinologist regularly throughout life. This depends on your child’s condition. Some conditions need long-term follow-up, whereas others can be sorted out in 1-2 appointments.

To see an endocrinologist, your child will need a referral from your GP. Your GP can help you find someone who’s right for your child.

Before going to an endocrinologist

Before seeing the endocrinologist, it’s a good idea to find out about things like the following:

• Why you’re going: talk with your GP about why your child needs to see an endocrinologist.
• Appointments: do you need to make the appointment, or will the GP make it for you? Does the appointment need to be in person, or can it be via telehealth?
• Waiting lists: how long before you can get an appointment to see the endocrinologist?
• Is there anything you can do while you’re waiting for the appointment? For example, can your child start some treatment or therapy?
• Costs: how much will the appointment with the endocrinologist cost? Check whether you can get money back from Medicare or private health insurance.
• Locations: find out where you have to go to see the endocrinologist – for example, public hospital, private hospital or consulting rooms.

You can ask your GP these and any other questions before you go to the endocrinologist. You could also ask the endocrinologist’s clinic when you make your appointment. It’s a good idea to write down your questions, so you don’t forget.