Cancer Physicians come in many varieties, and this can be confusing to the newly-diagnosed patient. Which doctor should be seen and when? In most cases, the management of the treatment plan is handled by an oncologist or medical doctor who specializes in this field. He of she often also oversees any chemotherapy, immunotherapy and hormone therapy that is part of the treatment, but will likely refer the patient to other specialists in the event additional care is needed. What other types of cancer doctors may be seen during treatment?
A radiation oncologist will be called in if radiation is needed as part of the treatment plan. This radiation may be provided in an effort to cure the cancer or it may be done for palliative reasons, which is to relieve any symptoms the patient is experiencing while undergoing other treatment or to help those with incurable cancer have a better quality of life. The radiation oncologist works with the medical oncologist to determine the best course of action for each case.
Surgical oncologists often work to diagnose cancer through the use of a biopsy. In addition, they may carry out a surgical procedure to remove a tumor or another type of tissue that is cancerous. There are cases where surgery is done strictly for palliative reasons also, which is why the surgical oncologist works as part of a larger medical team in the treatment of a patient with cancer. Other types of surgery that may be needed include resections and reconstructive surgeries.
Contact Business Name to learn more about their Cancer Physicians and the treatment options offered at the facility. In addition to standard forms of treatment, such as chemotherapy and radiation, the center offers access to surgical treatments, targeted and hormonal therapy, stem cell transplantation, and bone marrow transplants. Complementary and integrative medicine may be obtained here also, as the center works to provide the most comprehensive care possible. Until a cure is found for all cancers, physicians and centers of this type will be needed. Fortunately, the high quality of care offered here makes this disease slightly more manageable for patients and their families.