A colorectal surgeon is a medical professional who is experienced with the colon and rectum and is capable of diagnosing and treating diseases that affect these parts of the body. They treat illnesses and diseases that range from mild to severe, and they sometimes work with other specialists and doctors to determine how to treat their patients properly. They are sometimes referred to as proctologists.

Critical care is provided for patients who are suffering from life-threatening conditions. The doctors who work with these people are often called intensivists. They focus on a range of different issues, so they can serve people who need immediate and life-saving care. Since people who need critical care are suffering from such a wide variety of issues, intensivists must have a thorough understanding of diverse types of medical issues and the devices and medications needed to treat them.