6 Types of Cancer Specialists

Medically reviewed by Dr. Doug Blayney, November 27, 2023

Introduction

Cancer is a complex challenge that requires a team of specialized doctors working together to provide the best care. One crucial member of this team is the Medical Oncologist, a skilled physician trained in diagnosing and treating cancer using various methods such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted treatments, and immunotherapy. These doctors undergo extensive training, and sometimes specialize in a particular type of cancer, like breast cancer or lung cancer. However, a single doctor cannot address all aspects of cancer care. That's why it's essential to have multiple specialists, including Surgical Oncologists, Radiation Oncologists, Palliative Care Specialists, Surgical Pathologists, and Radiologists available to help with your care. Each brings unique skills to the table, working together to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated approach to cancer treatment. You might not need all of these specialists as a part of your care, but it’s important to know each of their roles which we will describe below.

Types of Cancer specialists who might help with your care

Medical Oncologist

A physician (medical doctor, may be an MD or DO), trained and skilled in the diagnosis and treatment (using chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted treatments and immunotherapy) of cancer. Specialist training after college and medical school for medical oncologists first includes two or three years of general medical training, which familiarizes them with general medical conditions (for instance diabetes, lung diseases and pneumonia, heart diseases, liver diseases and gastrointestinal ailments.) They then receive specialty training for two or three more years, in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, and often an introduction in how to evaluate and carry out research. Many medical oncologists specialize in one type of cancer (for instance, breast cancer, lung cancer or gastrointestinal cancer). Some medical oncologists are very comfortable with symptom management and end of life care. Medical oncologists often work in conjunction with other cancer specialists (radiation oncologists surgical oncologists, palliative care specialists and others.) The best cancer care is given when all doctors function as part of a team – talking to one another often and coordinating care -- relying on the particular skills of each team member.

Surgical Oncologist

A physician (medical doctor, may be an MD or DO), trained and skilled in the surgical treatment of cancer. Specialist training after college and medical school for surgical oncologists first includes three to six years of general surgical training, which familiarizes them with general surgical conditions (for instance gall bladder and appendix surgery, and familiarization with lung, bone and brain surgery) They then receive concentrated specialty training for two or three more years, and often an introduction in how to evaluate and carry out research. Many surgical oncologists specialize in one type of cancer (for instance, breast cancer, lung cancer, brain and spinal cancers, bone cancer surgery, or gastrointestinal cancer). Surgical oncologists often work in conjunction with other cancer specialists (radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, palliative care specialists and others.) The best cancer care is given when all doctors function as part of a team – talking to one another often and coordinating care -- relying on the particular skills of each team member.

Radiation Oncologist

A physician (medical doctor, may be an MD or DO), trained and skilled in the treatment of cancer using various forms of X-ray beams. Specialist training after college and medical school for radiation oncologists usually includes one to two years of general medical training, which familiarizes them with general medical conditions (for instance diabetes, lung diseases and pneumonia, heart diseases, liver diseases and gastrointestinal ailments). They then receive concentrated specialty training for two or three more years, and often an introduction in how to evaluate and carry out research. Many radiation oncologists specialize in one type of cancer (for instance, breast cancer, lung cancer, brain and spinal cancers, bone cancer, or gastrointestinal cancer). Radiation oncologists often work in conjunction with other cancer specialists (radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, palliative care specialists and others.) The best cancer care is given when all doctors function as part of a team – talking to one another often and coordinating care -- relying on the particular skills of each team member.

Palliative Care Specialist

A physician (medical doctor, may be an MD or DO), trained and skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of the side effects of cancer and cancer treatment. Specialist training after college and medical school for palliative care first includes two or four years of general medical training, which familiarizes them with general medical conditions (for instance diabetes, lung diseases and pneumonia, heart diseases, liver diseases and gastrointestinal ailments) and possibly specialty training in cancer treatment. They then receive specialty training for one or three more years, in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer related symptoms and symptoms related to cancer treatment. Palliative care specialists are usually very knowledgeable and comfortable with symptom management using a variety of modalities – medications, meditation, behavioral therapies, acupuncture and message. They are also trained to help in end-of-life care. Palliative care specialists usually work in conjunction with other cancer specialists (particularly medical oncologists and others). The best cancer care is given when all doctors function as part of a team – talking to one another often and coordinating care -- relying on the particular skills of each team member.

Surgical Pathologist

A physician (medical doctor, may be an MD or DO), trained and skilled in the diagnosis of cancer. Patients seldom meet their surgical pathologist or their team of surgical pathologists, but their input is critical to determining a treatment plan. Specialist training after college and medical school for surgical pathologists first includes two or four years of general pathology, which familiarizes them with general anatomical pathology (what the human body looks like inside) and histopathology (what normal and abnormal tissues look like under the microscope). Most then receive concentrated specialty training for one to three more years, concentrating on illness of various organs (for instance, breast cancer, lung cancer or gastrointestinal cancer, etc). The surgical pathologist is part of an integrated care team (medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, palliative care specialists and others.) The best cancer care is given when all doctors function as part of a team – talking to one another often and coordinating care -- relying on the particular skills of each team member.

Radiologist

A physician (medical doctor, may be an MD or DO), trained and skilled in the diagnosis of cancer by interpreting images or pictures generated by various methods. Patients may not meet their radiologists, but their input is critical to determining a treatment plan. Specialist training after college and medical school for radiologists first includes three or four years of general radiology, which familiarizes them with general radiology (including plain x-rays such as a chest x-ray and mammograms, interpreting computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET) scans, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine scans (including bone scans). Some then receive concentrated specialty training for one to three more years, concentrating on the images of various organs (for instance, breast cancer, lung cancer or gastrointestinal cancer, etc). Some receive training in “interventions” meaning biopsies and injecting medications or other substances into the body with guidance from the images. The diagnostic and interventional radiologists are part of an integrated care team (medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, palliative care specialists and others.) The best cancer care is given when all doctors function as part of a team – talking to one another often and coordinating care -- relying on the particular skills of each team member.

What Should You Look for in a Cancer Specialist?

Here are some things to look for in a cancer specialist:

• Experience:
• Look for a cancer specialist with experience in treating the type of cancer you have.
• Experienced doctors often have more knowledge about different treatment options.
• Certifications:
• Check if the specialist is board-certified in oncology, which means they passed exams showing expertise.
• Certifications ensure the doctor has the right training to treat cancer.
• Good Communication:
• Find a specialist who listens to your concerns and explains things in a way you understand.
• Good communication helps you feel more comfortable and involved in your treatment.
• Compassion and Empathy:
• Choose a specialist who shows care and understands your feelings during the challenging times.
• Compassionate doctors can make the treatment process less stressful.
• Collaborative Approach:
• Look for a specialist who works well with other doctors and healthcare professionals.
• A team approach ensures you receive comprehensive and coordinated care.
• Accessibility:
• Consider the location of the specialist's office and if it's easy for you to get there.
• Accessibility is important for regular appointments and treatments.
• Patient Education:
• Find a specialist who educates you about your condition and treatment options.
• Understanding your treatment plan helps you make informed decisions about your health.
• Second Opinion Availability:
• Ensure the specialist is open to you seeking a second opinion if needed.
• A doctor who supports second opinions shows a commitment to your well-being.
• Collaboration with Cancer Centers:
• Check if the specialist is affiliated with a cancer center, where they may have access to advanced treatments and a collaborative team.
• Cancer centers often provide comprehensive care.

Why It Matters:

• Better Outcomes:
• Choosing a qualified specialist can lead to better treatment outcomes and improved chances of recovery.
• Personalized Care:
• Specialists with experience can tailor treatments to your specific needs, increasing the effectiveness of the care.
• Reduced Stress:
• Effective communication and compassionate care can reduce stress and make the treatment process more manageable.
• Confidence in Treatment:
• Knowing your doctor is certified and well-reviewed can give you confidence in the chosen treatment plan.
• Team Collaboration:
• Specialists who collaborate with other healthcare professionals ensure a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to your care.

How Do You Find a Cancer Specialist?

Here are some ways to find a cancer specialist:

1.  Ask Your Primary Care Doctor: Talk to your regular doctor and ask for recommendations on cancer specialists. Your primary care doctor can guide you to the right specialists based on your needs.
2. Get Referrals: Seek referrals from friends, family, or others who have experience with cancer treatment. Recommendations from people you trust can help you find a specialist who is caring and knowledgeable.
3. Check with Insurance: Contact your health insurance provider to get a list of cancer specialists covered by your plan. Knowing which doctors are in your network can save you money on medical expenses.
4. Look for Credentials: Check the doctor's credentials to make sure they are trained and experienced in treating cancer. Confirm that the specialist is board-certified in oncology, indicating expertise in the field.
5. Research Online: Use reliable websites to find information about cancer specialists in your area. Professional organizations like ASCO often have databases of cancer specialists you can search.
6. Visit Cancer Centers: Explore cancer centers in your region, as they often have a team of specialized doctors. These centers may offer comprehensive care with various specialists working together.
7. Consider Location: Think about the location of the specialist's office and how easy it is for you to travel there. Choosing a convenient location can make it more manageable for regular appointments.
8. Ask Questions: Prepare a list of questions to ask potential specialists during initial consultations. Asking about their experience, treatment approaches, and communication style can help you make an informed decision.
9. Seek a Second Opinion: It's okay to seek a second opinion to ensure you are making the best decision for your health. Another specialist's perspective can provide valuable insights and options for your treatment.
10. Trust Your Instincts: Pay attention to your feelings about the specialist during your first meeting. Trusting your instincts and feeling comfortable with the doctor is crucial for a positive patient-doctor relationship.

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