Our multidisciplinary cancer treatment team is made up
of a variety of oncology experts who have the experience and expertise
to diagnose and treat even the most difficult types of cancer cases. For
more information, call 877-BEAT-CANCER (877-232-8226) today.
What kinds of specialists treat persons with cancer?
Your cancer treatment may involve several types of healthcare
professionals who, with you, form the "cancer care team." The
multidisciplinary cancer team may include, but is not limited to, the
following team members:
- Surgeon - Once you have been diagnosed, you may see a surgeon who, in turn, may
refer you to an oncologist - a physician with special training in the
diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
- Oncologist - Oncologists may be known as medical oncologists or radiation
oncologists. Your oncologist will work with you to create a treatment
plan. He/she usually acts as the coordinator of your cancer care.
- Oncology nurses - Oncology nurses have special training in cancer and caring for
patients during treatment. They will help carry out the treatment plan
your oncologist creates and will help to guide patients though treatment
with activities such as giving cancer medications, checking your
progress, and answering your questions about treatment. If you are
undergoing chemotherapy, oncology nurses will monitor any side effects.
- Social workers - Social workers may provide counsel to you and your family, help you
understand your diagnosis and treatment, and assist you in finding
support groups or other cancer-related services.
- Psychiatrists and psychologists - Psychiatrists and psychologists are specialists that can help if you
have problems with depression or mental health. Cancer can be difficult
for anyone to cope with, so make sure to seek help if necessary.
Psychiatrists can prescribe medications such as antidepressants. Both
specialists can help patients with counseling and other depression
treatment methods.
- Rehabilitation specialists - People with cancer sometimes need help recovering after treatment.
Physical therapists, speech therapists, respiratory therapists,
occupational therapists, and others can be helpful to many patients,
depending on the type of cancer and treatment.
- Dietitians - Cancer and cancer treatment can make eating difficult. Some people
lose weight or have trouble eating foods that provide the right energy.
Registered dietitians (RD) help people maintain healthy eating habits
during cancer treatment.
- Home health aides - Home health aides specialize in helping patients manage tasks at home
during treatment, and may help with everyday chores, such as cooking
food or cleaning.
Other important specialists that may be involved in the treatment process include the following:
- Hematologists - Physicians who specialize in the functions and disorders of blood.
- Pathologists - Physicians who specialize in diagnosis and classification of diseases by laboratory tests.
- Lab technicians, radiation technicians, and pharmacists