This archive report was first published on 23 October 2019.
Understanding Oncologists and Your Treatment Options ¶
Visiting a doctor can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to discussing cancer treatment. Having a basic understanding of the different types of oncologists and what to ask each can help you feel more in control and prepared for your appointment.
According to the American Cancer Society, oncology is a branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. An oncologist is a medical practitioner who specializes in treating cancer and providing medical care for individuals diagnosed with the disease.
Types of Oncologists ¶
There are several types of oncologists, each with their own area of expertise:
- Surgical Oncologist: Responsible for removing tumors and nearby tissues during surgery and performing biopsies to diagnose cancer.
- Medical Oncologist: Treats cancer using chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy.
- Gynaecologic Oncologist: Specializes in treating gynaecologic cancers, such as ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancers.
- Radiation Oncologist: Treats cancer using radiation therapy.
- Haematologist-Oncologist: Diagnoses and treats blood cancers, such as lymphoma, leukemia, and myeloma.
- Paediatric Oncologist: Treats cancer in children and teenagers.
Questions to Ask Your Oncologist ¶
Before your appointment, it's essential to know what to ask each type of oncologist. Here are some questions to consider:
Surgical Oncologist ¶
- Why are you recommending surgery?
- What are the outcomes and how does it work?
- How should I prepare for the procedure?
- What will happen procedurally?
- How long am I expected to stay in the hospital?
- What support will you give me during and after the procedure?
- What are the costs involved?
- How long will I take to recover?
- What complications should I expect?
- When can I fully recover?
Medical Oncologist ¶
- Considering my current state, what are the risks?
- What is the best therapy for my condition?
- Why are you recommending this type of therapy?
- Where do I go for hormone therapy or chemotherapy?
- How long will the treatment last?
- What are the other treatment options for cancer?
- Where is the focus of chemotherapy, and will I need to take anti-nausea medications?
- Will chemotherapy make my hair fall, and when I'm through with treatment, will it grow back?
- Should I adjust my diet or lifestyle during the treatment process?
Gynaecologic Oncologist ¶
- What type of ovarian cancer do I have?
- What type of doctor should I consult?
- Where do I attend care?
- What is my treatment plan?
- Am I required to have chemotherapy?
- Are clinical trials essential part of the treatment?
Radiation Oncologist ¶
- What treatment option do you recommend?
- What are the benefits and side effects of radiation therapy?
- What type of radiation therapy do you recommend for my condition?
- Where should I attend for my appointments?
- How many treatment sessions should I have, and how long does each session last?
- What are the side effects of my treatment?
- How should I manage skin irritation associated with the entire process?
Haematologist-Oncologist ¶
- Judging from my symptoms, what is the best diagnosis?
- What is the best treatment for my condition?
- What should I avoid?
- What are the side effects?
- What is the treatment cost? Will my insurance cover the cost?
- Will I be able to go for work or travel?
- What should I expect in the follow-up appointments?
Paediatric Oncologist ¶
- What are the necessary treatment options?
- How severe is the cancer condition?
- What are the possible treatment plan and options?
- What is the cost?
- How do you deliver compassionate and quality care?
- What is the goal of the cancer treatment?
- How long will the treatment take?
By understanding the different types of oncologists and what to ask each, you can feel more empowered and prepared for your cancer treatment journey.
