Meet Your Oncology Team

A medical oncologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer using various methods such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy. A medical oncologist works with other specialists such as radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, or hematologists to create and oversee a personalized treatment plan for each patient. A medical oncologist also provides supportive care to help patients manage their symptoms and side effects of cancer and its treatment. A medical oncologist needs to have excellent communication skills to explain the diagnosis, prognosis, treatment options, and possible outcomes to their patients and their families. A medical oncologist also needs to have extensive knowledge of the latest research and clinical trials in oncology.

To become a medical oncologist, one must complete a bachelor's degree, followed by four years of medical school. After graduating from medical school, one must complete a residency program in internal medicine or pediatrics for two to five years. Then, one must pursue a fellowship program in medical oncology for two to three years. Finally, one must pass the board certification exams and obtain a license to practice medicine in their state. A medical oncologist may also choose to subspecialize in a specific type of cancer or a specific population group, such as gynecologic oncology or pediatric oncology.

               A radiation oncologist is a physician who specializes in using ionizing radiation to treat cancer. Radiation oncology is one of the three main branches of oncology, along with surgery and chemotherapy. Radiation oncologists work with a team of other health professionals to plan and deliver radiation therapy to patients with various types of cancer.

Radiation therapy can be given as a curative modality, either alone or in combination with other treatments, or as a palliative modality, to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life for patients with incurable cancers. Radiation oncologists use different methods of radiation delivery, such as external beam radiation therapy, which comes from a machine outside the body that targets the tumor site, or internal radiation therapy, which involves placing a radioactive source inside or near the tumor.

Radiation oncologists undergo extensive training and education to become experts in their field. They must complete a bachelor's degree, preferably in a science-related field, followed by four years of medical school and a one-year internship. They then enter a four-year residency program in radiation oncology, where they learn the principles and practice of radiation therapy for various cancers. Some radiation oncologists may also pursue a fellowship to gain additional skills and experience in a specific area of interest, such as pediatric oncology, brachytherapy, or stereotactic radiosurgery.

Radiation oncologists have a rewarding and challenging career that requires both scientific knowledge and compassionate care. They are responsible for evaluating patients' medical history and physical condition, performing diagnostic tests and imaging studies, designing and implementing individualized treatment plans, monitoring patients' response and side effects, adjusting treatment as needed, and providing long-term follow-up care. Radiation oncologists also collaborate with other specialists, such as medical oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, nurses, physicists, dosimetrists, and technologists, to ensure optimal care for their patients. Radiation oncologists also engage in research and education to advance the field of radiation oncology and improve outcomes for cancer patients.

A surgical oncologist is a doctor who specializes in the surgical management of tumors, especially cancerous ones. Surgical oncologists use surgery to improve the condition of patients with cancer by removing tumors and nearby tissue that has cancer cells in it. They also perform biopsies to diagnose cancer and help plan the best treatment options for each patient. Surgical oncologists work with other oncologists, such as medical oncologists and radiation oncologists, to provide comprehensive and multidisciplinary care for cancer patients.

Surgical oncology is a complex and challenging field that requires extensive training and experience. To become a surgical oncologist, one must complete medical school, a general surgery residency, and a surgical oncology fellowship. The fellowship usually lasts two to three years and involves specialized training in various types of cancer surgery, such as breast cancer surgery, pancreatic cancer surgery, gastric cancer surgery, and more. The fellowship also includes research and education in cancer biology, genetics, immunology, and clinical trials.  

Surgical oncologists are board-certified by the American Board of Surgery in general surgery and complex general surgical oncology. They are also members of professional societies such as the Society of Surgical Oncology, the American College of Surgeons, and the American Society of Breast Surgeons. They follow the latest guidelines and evidence-based practices in cancer surgery and participate in continuing education and quality improvement activities.  

Surgical oncologists play a vital role in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients with cancer. They use their skills and expertise to perform safe and effective surgeries that can improve survival rates and quality of life for cancer patients. They also collaborate with other health care providers and researchers to advance the field of surgical oncology and discover new ways to fight cancer.

An oncology nurse is a specialized nurse who cares for cancer patients in various settings, such as hospitals, cancer centers, or private clinics. Oncology nurses have advanced training and certification in oncology, which is the study and treatment of cancer. Oncology nurses perform many roles and duties, such as:

- Assessing the physical, emotional, and social needs of cancer patients and their families

- Providing education and counseling on cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship

- Administering chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other cancer therapies

- Monitoring and managing side effects and complications of cancer treatment

- Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and pharmacists

- Conducting or participating in cancer research and quality improvement projects

- Advocating for the rights and preferences of cancer patients and their families

Oncology nurses need to have strong clinical skills, a caring attitude, and a passion for helping people with cancer. They also need to have excellent communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Oncology nurses face many challenges and rewards in their work, such as dealing with complex medical situations, coping with emotional stress, and witnessing the resilience and courage of cancer patients.

An oncology pharmacist is a pharmacist who specializes in the care of patients with cancer. An oncology pharmacist provides evidence-based and patient-centered medication therapy management and direct patient care for individuals with cancer, including treatment assessment and monitoring for potential adverse drug reactions and interactions. An oncology pharmacist also stays updated on the latest drug therapies and performs evaluations of medication profiles to support the medical team. An oncology pharmacist may work in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, infusion centers, or research institutions. To become an oncology pharmacist, one needs to complete a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree, a postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) pharmacy residency, and a postgraduate year 2 (PGY2) oncology pharmacy residency. Additionally, one may obtain board certification in oncology pharmacy (BCOP) from the Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS) to demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in oncology pharmacy.

A social worker in oncology is a licensed professional who provides emotional, psychological, social, and practical support for people with cancer and their families. A social worker in oncology can help people cope with the challenges and changes that come with a cancer diagnosis, such as:

- Understanding their disease and treatment options

- Communicating with their health care team

- Finding resources and financial assistance for medical costs, transportation, home care, child care, etc.

- Applying for disability or other benefits

- Dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, or other emotions

- Adjusting to a new normal after treatment or survivorship

- Accessing counseling, support groups, or other forms of emotional support

A social worker in oncology can also conduct or participate in research studies to improve the quality of life and care for people with cancer. A social worker in oncology works as an advocate for people with cancer and helps them navigate the complex and often overwhelming health care system. A social worker in oncology is a valuable member of the multidisciplinary cancer care team and can make a positive difference in the lives of people affected by cancer.

A medical assistant in oncology is a health care professional who works under the supervision of an oncologist or a physician who specializes in treating cancer. A medical assistant in oncology performs both clinical and administrative tasks to support the oncologist and the cancer patients. Some of the duties of a medical assistant in oncology are:

- Scheduling appointments, answering phone calls, and greeting patients

- Updating and maintaining electronic medical records and insurance forms

- Taking vital signs, such as blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and weight

- Collecting blood samples, urine samples, or other specimens for laboratory testing

- Performing electrocardiograms (EKGs) or other diagnostic tests as ordered by the oncologist

- Preparing examination rooms and equipment for the oncologist

- Assisting the oncologist with physical examinations, procedures, or surgeries

- Educating patients about their diagnosis, treatment plan, medications, and side effects

- Administering injections, medications, or intravenous fluids as directed by the oncologist

- Providing emotional support and comfort to patients and their families

A medical assistant in oncology needs to have specialized knowledge and skills to work with cancer patients. They need to be familiar with the types of cancer, the stages of cancer, the treatments available, and the possible complications. They also need to have good communication skills, compassion, empathy, and patience. They need to be able to handle stressful and emotional situations with professionalism and respect.

A medical assistant in oncology typically works in an outpatient clinic or a hospital setting. They may work with different types of cancer patients, such as breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, or leukemia. They may also work with different age groups, such as children, adults, or seniors. They usually work full-time, but their hours may vary depending on the needs of the oncologist and the patients.

To become a medical assistant in oncology, one needs to complete a medical assistant program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). The program usually takes one to two years to complete and includes courses in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical terminology, clinical procedures, laboratory techniques, and medical ethics. The program also includes an externship or a practicum where students gain hands-on experience in a health care setting.

After completing the program, one needs to pass a certification exam offered by a national organization such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), the American Medical Technologists (AMT), or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). The certification exam tests one's knowledge and skills in medical assisting. The certification is valid for five years and needs to be renewed by completing continuing education credits.

A medical assistant in oncology can advance their career by pursuing further education or training in oncology or a related field. They can also seek additional certifications or credentials that demonstrate their expertise and competence in working with cancer patients. For example, they can obtain the Oncology Certified Medical Assistant (OCMA) credential from the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC), which requires passing an exam and having at least two years of experience as a medical assistant in oncology.

A financial counselor in oncology is a professional who helps patients receiving cancer treatment and their families figure out healthcare costs and find options for payment assistance. They discuss healthcare costs and payment options with patients and their families, and help them plan for healthcare expenses. They also act as a liaison between the patient, the provider, and other clinic departments, as well as the patient's insurance carrier. They may obtain insurance pre-certification for treatment, work with pharmaceutical companies to get free or discounted drugs, and assist patients in applying for financial assistance programs .

Financial counselors in oncology are an important part of the cancer care team, as they can help reduce the financial burden and stress that may accompany a cancer diagnosis. Financial counselors can also help improve patient outcomes by ensuring timely access to care, facilitating a seamless revenue cycle process, and overcoming health care system barriers . Financial counselors in oncology may work in different settings, such as hospitals, cancer centers, or private practices  . They may have different qualifications and certifications depending on their employer and location. However, they typically have a background in finance, insurance, or social work, and have excellent communication and problem-solving skills .