Who is on your care team
Learn who may be on your care team and who may be able to answer your questions
You should have a dedicated, caring team of health experts by your side throughout your care. Use this information to learn about their roles in your care and the types of questions you may want to ask them.
The cancer care team
The members of your care team are based on your needs and treatment goals. The types of health care providers listed below may be on your care team.
Oncologists
Oncologists are doctors with specialized training to treat cancer. Your oncologist will diagnose your cancer, help you to decide on the best treatment, and oversee your care.
Example questions to ask your oncologist
- What type of cancer do I have?
- What is the stage of my cancer?
- How serious is my cancer?
- Why do you recommend this treatment?
What type of cancer do I have?
What is the stage of my cancer?
How serious is my cancer?
Why do you recommend this treatment?
Surgeons
Surgeons are trained to do surgery on many parts of the body and treat a range of conditions. A surgical oncologist specializes in performing surgery to treat cancer, remove tumors or parts of the body affected by cancer. They will also help diagnose your cancer and care for you after surgery.
Example questions to ask your surgeon
- What will you do in this surgery?
- What are the risks?
- How long will the surgery take?
- What will my recovery be like?
What will you do in this surgery?
What are the risks?
How long will the surgery take?
What will my recovery be like?
Oncology nurses
Oncology nurses may help coordinate care with other members of your care team, check your physical condition, and help you manage side effects as you go through treatment.
Example questions to ask your oncology nurse
- How will I get my treatment?
- What are the side effects of my treatment?
- What symptoms should prompt me to call you right away?
- Will my treatment affect the other medicines and supplements I already take?
How will I get my treatment?
What are the side effects of my treatment?
What symptoms should prompt me to call you right away?
Will my treatment affect the other medicines and supplements I already take?
Radiation oncologists
Radiation oncologists are doctors with special training to use radiation to treat cancer.
Example questions to ask your radiation oncologist
- Why do you recommend radiation therapy to treat my cancer?
- How will radiation help me?
- What are the possible side effects of radiation therapy?
Why do you recommend radiation therapy to treat my cancer?
How will radiation help me?
What are the possible side effects of radiation therapy?
Pathologists and radiologists
These doctors consult with members of your cancer care team to decide the type and stage of your cancer.
- Pathologists are doctors who specialize in interpreting laboratory tests and analyzing cells, tissues, and organs to diagnose disease
- Radiologists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating disease using medical imaging techniques
If you have questions about tests and test results, talk to your doctor.
Your voice is important
Your feelings and opinions are important for decisions about your care. Reach out to your care team any time you have questions or concerns. Partner with your team to make sure you understand your care.
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