Endocrinology is the study of hormones and hormone-producing tissues. The specialty of clinical endocrinology encompasses the diagnosis and management of disorders of the endocrine system. Hormones from the body’s major gland systems (pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, pancreas, adrenal, and gonads) regulate all body systems and bodily processes, including growth and development, bone, metabolism, electrolytes, blood pressure, reproduction, vascular disease, bowel function, and neurological processes.

Endocrinologists assess, diagnose, and manage endocrine disorders resulting from an excess or deficiency of hormone action, or neoplasms of endocrine organs, perform diagnostic and laboratory analyses, provide treatment, and conduct basic and applied research in a wide range of humoral and metabolic conditions. Communication skills are paramount in the management of people of all ages and in the care of those with chronic disease. Endocrinologists:

diagnose and treat disorders of the endocrine system. The spectrum of endocrine disorders includes diabetes type I, 2, and others, their complications, and other disorders of glucose metabolism; thyroid, pituitary, and adrenal disease; menopause, gonadal disorders, and infertility; neuroendocrine conditions; benign and malignant glandular tumours; disorders of growth; obesity; genetic and congenital glandular dysfunction; lipid and nutritional abnormalities; osteoporosis and metabolic bone disease.

possess specialist investigation and laboratory skills. Endocrinologists need to be able to interpret biochemical tests relating to endocrine diagnosis and have a good understanding of the laboratory methods underlying these analyses and their limitations. Consequently, experience in clinical or laboratory research and in diagnostic endocrine laboratory medicine is a strongly recommended component of training.

are responsible for long term patient management. Endocrine conditions are diverse in their requirement for specialist medical advice and in most cases their impact is lifelong. Disorders may present across the age spectrum. Many pose a diagnostic challenge, and in some the application of new or partially effective treatment requires fine judgement. Endocrine disorders affect many body systems and call for expertise in interpretation of clinical biochemistry and immunochemistry, including dynamic tests, genetic testing and counselling, and a strong therapeutic partnership between the endocrinologist and patient and/or their family. Multidisciplinary team care is integral to treatment decisions for diabetes, thyroid cancer, pituitary disease, neuroendocrine tumours, and complex bone disease.

provide life-stage endocrine care. Endocrinologists have expertise in managing people with hormone disorders to progress through puberty, achieve optimal preconception preparation, manage in pregnancy and lactation, menopause, and aging. They can provide gender-affirming treatment and assess and reduce cardiovascular risk in people according to age and comorbidities.

provide lifestyle management advice for disorders such as obesity/overweight, polycystic ovarian syndrome, diabetes, osteoporosis prevention and subfertility.

manage medications. Endocrinologists have expertise in the management of complex medications and specialist knowledge of medication delivery devices / technology.

deliver endocrine care. Endocrinology services are pivotal to a broad spectrum of health care. Endocrinologists provide consultation services to hospital inpatients, as well as dedicated inpatient endocrine care. Most endocrine care is delivered in outpatient settings, in hospital clinics, community settings, and private practice. Endocrine care is well suited to incorporation of telehealth and other digital health technologies.

Endocrinologists are experts in the treatment and management of disorders of the endocrine system with a focus on communication, problem-solving, long-term care of chronic conditions, and evidence-based practice and research. Skills include:

  • Communication and interpersonal skills

    Endocrinologists have an important role in taking complete medical histories, determining differential diagnoses, explaining investigations and treatment options, which may include advice on lifestyle, nutrition, and medications, and preventative treatments and measures. Endocrinologists work with multidisciplinary teams including, but not limited to, diabetes educators, dietitians, podiatrists, psychologists, social workers, genetic counsellors, surgeons as well as other medical specialists in multidisciplinary teams. Communication with referring general practitioners is paramount.

  • Attention to detail and problem-solving skills

    Endocrinologists must carefully analyse medical histories, physical examinations, and test results, to make accurate diagnoses.

  • Research

    Conducting research and studies on the endocrine system and its diseases, disorders, and conditions to review quality of existing treatment techniques and to develop new treatment techniques can be an important component of a career in endocrinology. Developing new models of care for chronic disease and benchmarking care outcomes is important to improve outcomes for people with chronic disease. Remaining up to date on current discoveries, developments, trends, research, and technology is necessary to deliver best endocrine care.

Last modified: Wednesday, 20 August 2025, 3:44 PM