Meet your cancer care team
You won’t face cancer alone. From your first appointment through survivorship, a dedicated team coordinates your care, answers questions and supports you and your family every step of the way.
Your core care team
These are the people most patients meet early in their cancer journey:
Medical oncologist
A doctor who diagnoses and treats cancer using medicines like chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapies. They often serve as your lead clinician and coordinate with other specialists.
Radiation oncologist
A doctor who treats cancer with precisely planned radiation. They partner with your medical and surgical oncologists to design your treatment plan.
Surgical oncologist
A surgeon specially trained to remove tumors and related tissues. They collaborate closely with your other oncologists before and after surgery.
Advanced practice providers (nurse practitioners and physician assistants)
Clinicians with advanced training who examine you, order and interpret tests, prescribe medicines, provide education and help manage side effects. They work hand-in-hand with your oncologists.
Oncology nurses (RNs, including oncology certified nurses)
Nurses who specialize in cancer care. They administer treatments like chemotherapy, provide education, monitor symptoms and are a go-to resource between visits.
Oncology nurse navigator (your point of contact)
A registered nurse who guides you through diagnosis, treatment and follow-up; —answering questions, coordinating appointments and connecting you with resources. Think of your navigator as your first call for help.
Pharmacist
Answers questions about your medications (including side effects and interactions) and helps you use them safely and effectively.
Specialists you may see
Depending on your diagnosis and treatment plan, other experts may be part of your care:
- Hematologist: A physician specializing in blood disorders, including blood cancers
- Genetic counselor: Reviews your personal and family history and, when appropriate, arranges testing to understand inherited cancer risks and personalize care
- Dietitian and nutritionist: Provides nutrition assessments and counseling before, during and after treatment, especially if you’ve had appetite changes or unplanned weight loss
- Behavioral health and health psychologist: Offers counseling to help manage stress, anxiety, depression, body image changes and more for you and your family
- Palliative care (supportive care) and pain management: Focuses on relief of symptoms, stress and side effects at any stage, improving quality of life alongside your cancer treatment
- Rehabilitation services (physical, occupational and speech-language therapy): Helps you regain strength, function and swallowing or speech skills, especially after head and neck treatments
- Integrative medicine: Supports wellness with evidence-informed approaches to sleep, movement, nutrition and stress, complementing your cancer care
- Social worker: Connects you with counseling, support groups and community resources; assists with advance directives, transportation, housing and workplace or school needs
- Survivorship coordinator: A nurse who provides a written treatment summary, follow-up care plans and connects you with survivorship programs
- Clinical research nurse: Educates you about clinical trials and coordinates your care if you choose to participate, which is always your choice
- Plastic and reconstructive surgeon: Restores function and appearance after cancer or cancer surgery when needed
Radiation planning experts (behind the scenes)
- Dosimetrist: Designs your personalized radiation treatment plan as prescribed by your radiation oncologist
- Radiation therapist: Operates the linear accelerator and positions you for treatment each day
Helpful tips for every visit
- Bring a list of your medicines, including vitamins and supplements
- Write down your top questions ahead of time
- Consider bringing a family member or friend to take notes
- Ask about financial counseling and community resources if you need them