There are 42 medical specialties that start with the letter H. From Haematology to Hypogonadism. Medical specialties are fields within medicine that focus on specific functions, patient populations, or types of diseases. They have evolved to address the increasing complexity of healthcare, enabling practitioners to hone their skills and knowledge in particular areas. Specialists typically undergo extensive training that includes residency programs and sometimes additional fellowships, allowing them to provide advanced care and treatment options. The diversification into various specialties ensures that patients receive expert diagnosis and management of their medical conditions, thus enhancing the quality of care.

An interesting fact about medical specialties is that many of them have unique subspecialties that have developed around advancements in technology and research. For instance, within internal medicine, there are subspecialties like cardiology and gastroenterology that focus on specific organ systems or diseases, demonstrating a continuous evolution of medical practice to incorporate new knowledge and techniques.

Here’s what each of the columns in the table means:

Focus Area: This column indicates the primary domain or aspect of health care that the specialty addresses, such as cardiology focusing on heart diseases or pediatrics centering on children’s health.

Training Required: This column specifies the education and training commitments needed to practice within the specialty, typically involving medical school, residency, and possibly fellowships for further specialization.

Common Procedures: This column outlines the typical medical interventions or treatments that practitioners in the specialty perform regularly, such as surgeries, diagnostic tests, or therapeutic measures.

Description: This column provides a brief overview of the specialty, including its scope of practice, the types of conditions treated, and the patient population served, giving insight into the role of the medical specialty in overall healthcare.

Medical specialties That Start With H

Medical specialties focus area training required common procedures
Haematology Diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders 4-5 years of residency training in internal medicine, followed by 3-4 years of fellowship training in haematology Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, blood tests, chemotherapy administration
Haemophilia Medicine Diagnosis and treatment of haemophilia and other bleeding disorders 4-5 years of residency training in internal medicine, followed by 3-4 years of fellowship training in haematology Replacement therapy, prophylaxis, and management of bleeding episodes
Haemostasis and Thrombosis Diagnosis and treatment of bleeding and clotting disorders 4-5 years of residency training in internal medicine, followed by 3-4 years of fellowship training in haematology Coagulation testing, anticoagulant therapy, treatment of thrombotic events
Hand Surgery Diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and forearm 5 years of residency training in orthopaedic surgery, followed by 1-2 years of fellowship training in hand surgery Hand and wrist fracture repair, tendon and nerve repair, microsurgery
Headache Medicine Diagnosis and treatment of primary and secondary headache disorders 4 years of residency training in neurology, followed by 1-2 years of fellowship training in headache medicine Botox injections, nerve blocks, medication management
Health Economics Analyzing the costs, effects, and value of healthcare interventions. PhD in economics or health services research. Economic modeling, cost-effectiveness analysis, budget impact analysis.
Health Education Promoting health and wellness through education and behavior change. Master’s degree in public health or health education. Developing educational programs, workshops, and campaigns.
Health Equity Addressing disparities in health outcomes among different populations. Public health or social sciences background. Community engagement, policy analysis, program evaluation.
Health Informatics Use of information technology to improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes Medical degree plus additional training in health IT, data analytics, and systems design Developing and implementing electronic health record systems, telemedicine platforms, and data-driven clinical decision support tools
Health Promotion Implementing strategies to improve population health and wellness. Master’s degree in public health or health education. Program planning, community outreach, health communication.
Health Services Research Examining the organization, delivery, and outcomes of healthcare. PhD in public health, health policy, or related field. Data analysis, systematic reviews, policy evaluation.
Healthcare Administration Management and oversight of healthcare organizations, facilities, and systems Master’s degree in healthcare administration, public health, or business administration Budgeting, staffing, strategic planning, policy development, and regulatory compliance
Healthcare Economics Application of economic principles to the healthcare industry Medical degree or advanced degree in economics, health policy, or public health Health technology assessment, cost-benefit analysis, healthcare financing and reimbursement strategies
Healthcare Ethics Examination of the moral and ethical issues in healthcare delivery and medical research Medical degree or advanced degree in bioethics, philosophy, or theology Consultation on complex ethical dilemmas, development of institutional policies and guidelines
Healthcare Informatics Use of information and communication technologies to improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes Medical degree or advanced degree in computer science, information technology, or health sciences Electronic health record management, data analysis, and the development of clinical decision support systems
Healthcare Management Oversight and administration of healthcare organizations and systems Master’s degree in healthcare administration, business administration, or public health Strategic planning, financial management, human resource management, and regulatory compliance
Healthcare Policy Analysis and development of policies and regulations that govern the healthcare system Medical degree, advanced degree in public health or health policy, or background in government or policy Policy research, stakeholder engagement, legislative advocacy, and the development of healthcare legislation
Healthcare Quality Improvement Enhancing the quality, safety, and efficiency of healthcare delivery Medical degree or advanced degree in healthcare quality, public health, or healthcare administration Process mapping, data analysis, and the implementation of quality improvement initiatives
Healthcare Technology Assessment Evaluation of the clinical effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and safety of healthcare technologies Medical degree, advanced degree in health economics or health policy, or background in engineering or technology Systematic reviews, cost-benefit analyses, and the development of evidence-based recommendations
Hearing and Balance Diagnosis and treatment of hearing and balance disorders Specialized medical training in otolaryngology Audiometry, vestibular testing, hearing aid fitting
Hearing and Balance Disorders Diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss, tinnitus, vertigo, and other auditory and vestibular disorders Specialized medical and surgical training in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Audiometry, balance testing, hearing aid fitting, cochlear implant surgery
Heart Failure and Transplantation Diagnosis and treatment of heart failure and management of heart transplant patients 4 years of residency training in internal medicine, followed by 3-4 years of fellowship training in cardiovascular disease and heart failure/transplantation Heart transplantation, left ventricular assist device implantation, medication management
Hematology-Oncology Diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders and cancers Medical degree, residency in internal medicine, and fellowship in hematology-oncology Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplantation, and targeted therapies
Hematopathology Diagnosis of blood, bone marrow, lymph node, and other tissue diseases Specialized medical training in pathology with a focus on hematology Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, lymph node biopsy
Hepatobiliary Radiology Imaging and diagnosis of diseases affecting the liver, gallbladder, and biliary system Specialized training in Diagnostic Radiology, with a focus on abdominal and body imaging Ultrasound, CT, MRI, and interventional procedures such as percutaneous liver biopsy
Hepatology Diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases 4 years of residency training in internal medicine, followed by 3-4 years of fellowship training in gastroenterology and hepatology Liver biopsy, treatment of viral hepatitis, management of cirrhosis and liver cancer
Herbal Medicine Using plant-based remedies for health and wellness. Training in herbalism, naturopathy, or integrative medicine. Herbal supplements, tinctures, teas, and topical preparations.
Hereditary Cancer Genetics Identification and management of genetic predispositions to cancer Specialized medical training in medical genetics and oncology Genetic testing, risk assessment, cancer screening and prevention
High-Risk Obstetrics Management of pregnancies with increased risk factors, such as maternal medical conditions, fetal anomalies, or previous pregnancy complications Specialized training in Maternal-Fetal Medicine, a subspecialty of Obstetrics and Gynecology Fetal ultrasound, prenatal diagnosis, management of high-risk conditions, cesarean delivery
Holistic Medicine Integrative approach to health and wellness, focusing on the whole person Medical training with additional training in complementary and alternative therapies Nutritional counseling, mind-body therapies, herbal medicine
Holistic Nursing Nursing practice that focuses on the whole person, considering physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being Specialized training and certification in holistic nursing practices, in addition to a nursing degree Integrative therapies, mind-body interventions, spiritual care, patient education
Homeopathy Alternative medical system based on the principle of ‘like cures like’ Specialized training in homeopathic principles and practices Prescription of highly diluted natural substances
Hormone Replacement Therapy Management of hormone imbalances, particularly in the context of menopause Medical training with additional training in endocrinology and women’s health Hormone therapy, monitoring of hormone levels
Hospice and Palliative Care Specialized medical care for individuals with serious or life-limiting illnesses, focusing on symptom management and quality of life Specialized training in Hospice and Palliative Medicine, a subspecialty of various medical fields Pain and symptom management, advance care planning, end-of-life care, bereavement support
Hospice and Palliative Medicine Provision of comfort and support for patients with serious or life-limiting illnesses 4 years of residency training in any medical specialty, followed by 1-2 years of fellowship training in hospice and palliative medicine Pain and symptom management, advance care planning, end-of-life care
Human Factors Engineering Discipline that focuses on designing systems, products, and environments to optimize human well-being and overall system performance Specialized training in areas such as psychology, engineering, and ergonomics Usability testing, interface design, workflow analysis, human-computer interaction
Hyperbaric Medicine Use of increased atmospheric pressure to treat various medical conditions 4 years of residency training in emergency medicine, family medicine, or internal medicine, followed by 1-2 years of fellowship training in hyperbaric medicine Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, treatment of decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning
Hypertension Medicine Diagnosis, treatment, and management of high blood pressure and its complications Specialized training in Cardiology or Internal Medicine, with a focus on hypertension Medication management, lifestyle interventions, monitoring of blood pressure
Hypnosis Use of hypnosis for medical and psychological purposes 4 years of residency training in any medical specialty, followed by additional training in clinical hypnosis Pain management, behavior modification, anxiety/stress reduction
Hypnotherapy Use of hypnosis for therapeutic purposes Medical training with additional training in clinical hypnosis Hypnotic induction, suggestion therapy
Hypobaric Medicine Study and treatment of medical conditions related to low-pressure environments 4 years of residency training in aerospace medicine, followed by additional training in hypobaric medicine Altitude chamber training, treatment of altitude-related illnesses
Hypogonadism Diagnosis and treatment of low sex hormone (testosterone or estrogen) levels Specialized medical training in endocrinology Hormone replacement therapy, monitoring of hormone levels

Descriptions

Haematology
A medical specialty focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders of the blood, bone marrow, and the lymphatic system.
Haemophilia Medicine
A subspecialty of haematology that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of haemophilia and other inherited bleeding disorders.
Haemostasis and Thrombosis
A subspecialty of haematology that focuses on the diagnosis and management of conditions related to the body’s blood clotting and bleeding mechanisms.
Hand Surgery
A subspecialty of orthopaedic surgery that focuses on the surgical and non-surgical treatment of injuries, diseases, and conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and forearm.
Headache Medicine
A subspecialty of neurology that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of primary and secondary headache disorders, including migraines, tension-type headaches, and cluster headaches.
Health Economics
Provides evidence to inform decisions about healthcare resource allocation, pricing, and policies.
Health Education
Empowers individuals and communities to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
Health Equity
Aims to ensure that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to achieve optimal health, regardless of socioeconomic status, race, or other factors.
Health Informatics
Professionals in this field work to leverage technology and data to enhance the efficiency, quality, and accessibility of healthcare services.
Health Promotion
Focuses on preventing disease and injury by addressing the social, environmental, and behavioral determinants of health.
Health Services Research
Generates evidence to inform healthcare decision-making and improve the accessibility, quality, and cost-effectiveness of healthcare services.
Healthcare Administration
Responsible for the operational and financial management of healthcare organizations, ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of medical services.
Healthcare Economics
Examines the factors that influence the supply, demand, and allocation of healthcare resources, with the goal of improving the cost-effectiveness and accessibility of healthcare services.
Healthcare Ethics
Focuses on the ethical principles and decision-making processes that guide healthcare professionals in providing care, conducting research, and shaping healthcare policies.
Healthcare Informatics
Professionals in this field apply their expertise in both healthcare and technology to enhance the efficiency, quality, and safety of healthcare services.
Healthcare Management
Responsible for the overall management and leadership of healthcare organizations, ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of medical services to patients.
Healthcare Policy
Professionals in this field work to shape the laws, regulations, and guidelines that govern the healthcare industry, with the goal of improving access, quality, and affordability of healthcare services.
Healthcare Quality Improvement
Focuses on identifying and addressing areas for improvement in healthcare organizations, with the aim of delivering better patient outcomes, improving patient experience, and increasing the cost-effectiveness of healthcare services.
Healthcare Technology Assessment
Professionals in this field assess the healthcare impact and value of new medical technologies, such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and digital health tools, to guide decision-making and resource allocation in healthcare systems.
Hearing and Balance
Focuses on the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of diseases and conditions affecting the ears, hearing, and balance system.
Hearing and Balance Disorders
Physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the ears, hearing, and balance mechanisms.
Heart Failure and Transplantation
A subspecialty of cardiology that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients with heart failure, including those who have received or are awaiting a heart transplant.
Hematology-Oncology
Specialists in this field provide comprehensive care for patients with a wide range of blood-related conditions, including leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, as well as other hematological disorders.
Hematopathology
Specializes in the microscopic and molecular analysis of blood, bone marrow, and lymph node samples to diagnose hematologic disorders, including leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood diseases.
Hepatobiliary Radiology
Radiologists who use advanced imaging techniques to evaluate and diagnose conditions related to the liver, biliary tract, and gallbladder.
Hepatology
A subspecialty of gastroenterology that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases and disorders of the liver, gallbladder, biliary tree, and pancreas.
Herbal Medicine
Promotes the use of natural, plant-derived substances to prevent, manage, and treat various health conditions.
Hereditary Cancer Genetics
Focuses on the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of individuals and families with inherited genetic mutations that increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer.
High-Risk Obstetrics
Obstetricians who provide specialized care for women with high-risk pregnancies, focusing on the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus.
Holistic Medicine
Emphasizes the treatment of the whole person, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects, using a combination of conventional and alternative medicine techniques.
Holistic Nursing
Nurses who provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses the individual’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, often incorporating complementary and alternative treatments.
Homeopathy
Focuses on the use of highly diluted natural substances to stimulate the body’s own healing processes, based on the principle that a substance that causes certain symptoms in a healthy person can be used to treat those same symptoms in a sick person.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Focuses on the use of hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, to alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal changes, particularly those experienced during the menopausal transition.
Hospice and Palliative Care
Physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers who work together to provide comprehensive, compassionate care for patients and their families facing serious or terminal illnesses, with the goal of improving quality of life.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine
A medical specialty focused on providing specialized medical care, pain management, and emotional support for patients with serious or life-limiting illnesses, as well as their families.
Human Factors Engineering
Professionals who apply their understanding of human capabilities, limitations, and behaviors to the design of tools, technologies, and work environments, with the aim of improving safety, efficiency, and user experience.
Hyperbaric Medicine
A medical specialty that uses increased atmospheric pressure (hyperbaric oxygen therapy) to treat various medical conditions, such as wound healing, carbon monoxide poisoning, and decompression sickness.
Hypertension Medicine
Physicians who specialize in the comprehensive care of patients with hypertension, including the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of high blood pressure and its associated cardiovascular and other complications.
Hypnosis
A medical discipline that uses hypnosis, a trance-like state of focused attention and increased suggestibility, to treat various medical and psychological conditions, such as pain, anxiety, and habit disorders.
Hypnotherapy
Focuses on the use of hypnosis, a trance-like state of deep relaxation and increased suggestibility, to help individuals achieve desired changes in behavior, emotions, or physical symptoms.
Hypobaric Medicine
A medical specialty that focuses on the study and treatment of medical conditions related to low-pressure environments, such as those encountered in high-altitude or spaceflight situations.
Hypogonadism
Focuses on the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of conditions characterized by deficient or impaired production of sex hormones, which can lead to a variety of symptoms, such as low libido, fatigue, and bone loss.

If you think there is a missing term, let us know using the contact form.