Have you ever been surprised by a specialist’s lack of knowledge in their own field?

Medicine is so vast and specialized that it's common for doctors to have gaps in knowledge outside their specific area of expertise, especially after years of practicing within a limited scope.

However, there are moments when I’m genuinely shocked by a specialist's lack of fundamental knowledge—things that should be considered essential.

For instance, I once met a gynecologist with over 30 years of experience who admitted he didn’t understand why an HPV test is necessary when a woman undergoes an annual Pap smear.

HPV testing is gradually replacing the Pap smear as the primary method for cervical cancer screening because it provides a more accurate risk assessment. If a woman tests negative for HPV, she can safely extend the screening interval to at least three years.