Final answer:
Physicians, including specialists like endocrinologists or rheumatologists, diagnose diseases and prescribe treatments based on medical history, symptoms, and diagnostic tests.
Step-by-step explanation:
The member of the care team who diagnoses diseases and prescribes treatment is often a physician, such as a primary care physician or a specialist like an endocrinologist or rheumatologist. For instance, in the case of a patient with lupus, a rheumatologist would be responsible for ordering specific blood tests, such as the antinuclear antibody test (ANA) and a test for antibodies that bind to the Smith antigen (Sm), to confirm the diagnosis. Once a diagnosis is made, the physician can recommend treatment such as lifestyle changes, medications, or other interventions. For a condition like diabetes mellitus, an endocrinologist might prescribe lifestyle adjustments, medications to enhance insulin release, or even insulin injections if needed. Physicians rely on a combination of medical history, symptoms, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests to determine the appropriate treatment plan for a patient's condition.