Hepatologists are gastroenterology doctors who further specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the liver, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis. They likely have also completed additional study in the area of liver transplantation. Hepatologists may perform many specialized tests to diagnose liver disease or obtain liver biopsies.

Hepatology is not recognized by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada as a distinct sub-specialty. Most hepatologists are gastroenterologists certified by the Royal College.