What Is an Oncologist?

Facing a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, and one of the first steps is understanding the medical professionals who will be by your side. Oncologists are specialists who play a pivotal role in cancer care, but what exactly do they do?

What does an oncologist do?

An oncologist is a medical doctor dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and managing cancer. They play a central role in a patient's cancer journey, from initial diagnosis to post-treatment care. But what exactly does that entail?

Role and responsibilities

Oncologists are at the forefront of cancer care. They:

• Diagnose cancer: Using various tests and procedures to determine the presence and extent of cancer.
• Explain the diagnosis and staging: Helping patients understand their condition and its implications for their health.
• Develop treatment plans: Outlining the best course of action, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination.
• Oversee treatment: Monitoring progress and making adjustments as necessary.
• Manage symptoms and side effects: Providing support to alleviate discomfort from both the disease and its treatment, ensuring the patient's quality of life is maintained.

Types of oncologists

Cancer treatment is multifaceted, and different oncologists specialize in specific treatment methods.

Medical oncologists

Medical oncologists treat cancer using medications like chemotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. They often serve as the primary healthcare provider for cancer patients, coordinating with other specialists and offering supportive care throughout treatment.

They are experts in using medications to attack cancer cells, including the latest advances in immunotherapy, which harnesses the patient's own immune system, and targeted therapy, which focuses on specific molecules involved in cancer growth.

Surgical oncologists

Surgical oncologists focus on the surgical removal of tumors and surrounding tissues. They also perform biopsies to diagnose cancer. Their expertise is crucial when surgery is part of the treatment plan, whether it’s to remove the entire tumor or to reduce its size before other treatments can be administered.

Radiation oncologists

Radiation oncologists use high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. They design and oversee radiation therapy treatments, ensuring precise targeting to minimize damage to healthy tissues. Advanced techniques allow them to focus radiation more accurately, improving outcomes and reducing side effects.

Specialized oncology areas

Beyond the primary types, some oncologists specialize further to focus on specific cancers or patient groups:

• Hematologist oncologists: Experts in blood cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.
• Gynecologic oncologists: Specialize in cancers of the female reproductive system.
• Pediatric oncologists: Focus on cancers affecting children and teenagers.
• Geriatric oncologists: Address the unique challenges of treating older adults with cancer.
• Neuro-oncologists: Treat cancers of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system.
• Thoracic oncologists: Specialize in cancers of the chest area, including the lungs and esophagus.
• Urologic oncologists: Focus on cancers in the genitourinary system, like the bladder and kidneys.

Specialization allows oncologists to gain deeper insights into specific cancer types, providing patients with the most effective and cutting-edge treatments. For example, a pediatric oncologist understands the unique needs of children, whose cancers often differ from adults both biologically and in their response to treatment.

Training and certification

Becoming an oncologist requires extensive education and training:

• Medical degree: Complete medical school to become a doctor.
• Residency: Undertake residency training in internal medicine or general surgery.
• Fellowship: Specialize further with a fellowship in oncology, which can take an additional 2-3 years.
• Board certification: Obtain board certification in their oncology specialty.

Many participate in continuing medical education and may be involved in clinical trials and research.

In countries like Australia, oncologists are members of professional organizations, like:

• FRACP: Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians for medical oncologists.
• FRACS: Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons for surgical oncologists.
• FRANZCR: Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists for radiation oncologists.

When should you see an oncologist?

Typically, your primary care physician or specialist will refer you to an oncologist if:

• You have a cancer diagnosis: To begin specialized treatment.
• Cancer is suspected: Due to symptoms or test results.
• High-risk factors: Such as a strong family history or exposure to carcinogens.

Oncologists also play a role in:

• Follow-up care: Monitoring after treatment completion to check for recurrence.
• Palliative care: Managing symptoms and improving quality of life in advanced cancer.

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Questions to ask your oncologist

Being proactive in your cancer care means asking questions and ensuring you understand your treatment. Here are some important questions you might consider:

• What type of cancer do I have, and what is the stage?
• What treatment options are available, and which do you recommend?
• What is the prognosis of my type of cancer?
• What are the potential side effects of the treatment?
• How will treatment affect my daily life? Can I continue working or exercising?
• Are there any clinical trials that might be appropriate for me?
• What support services are available to help me cope emotionally and physically?

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about oncologists.

Final thoughts

Navigating a cancer diagnosis can be challenging, but understanding the role of an oncologist can make the journey clearer. These specialized doctors are dedicated to providing the best possible care, guiding you through diagnosis, treatment, and beyond. Building a strong relationship with your oncologist and care team can make a significant difference in your treatment experience.

Stay informed, communicate openly, and take an active role in your care. Remember, you're not alone on this journey—your healthcare team is there to support you every step of the way.

Sources and references

• What Is An Oncologist? Types & What They Do
• Definition of surgical oncologist - NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
• Definition of radiation oncologist - NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
• Choosing a Cancer Doctor | How to Find an Oncologist