I tell people that Specialists have subspecialties. My first Pulmonologist at Mayo was focused on lung cancer. He gave me an immediate appointment when he saw my scans. Two years later when I needed more in-depth discussion for my other lung issues, I asked questions, and he suggested I see his colleague in the Interstitial Lung Disease Clinic. The desk was going to schedule me with a Nurse Practitioner, but I know I have very complicated issues and need someone with real depth and experience. So, I said no, I need to see an MD for pulmonary fibrosis. I then saw the perfect MD for my problems. My quality of life and length of life really depend on expertise ... no time to be shy about getting the right specialist.