When you or a loved one receives a cancer diagnosis, securing the best possible medical care becomes paramount. Among the most critical decisions you’ll make is choosing the right Cancer Doctor, also known as an oncologist. This decision can significantly impact your treatment journey and overall well-being.
Finding a cancer doctor who is the right fit for you may require time and research. It’s essential to find a doctor with whom you feel comfortable, who understands your concerns, and who will partner with you throughout your diagnosis, treatment, and beyond. Depending on your situation, it’s wise to consult with the doctor who initially diagnosed your cancer to determine the urgency of finding a cancer specialist and whether you have time to explore your options thoroughly.
Why Choosing the Right Cancer Doctor Matters
Selecting the right cancer doctor is not just about medical expertise; it’s about establishing a partnership built on trust and effective communication. Your oncologist will be a central figure in your cancer journey, guiding you through complex treatment decisions and providing support during challenging times. The right doctor will not only possess the necessary skills and knowledge to treat your specific type of cancer but will also be someone who listens to your concerns, answers your questions clearly, and respects your preferences. This relationship is often long-term, extending through treatment and into crucial follow-up care, making it vital to choose someone you trust and feel comfortable with. A strong doctor-patient relationship can significantly improve your treatment experience and contribute positively to your overall health outcomes.
Understanding Different Types of Cancer Doctors (Oncologists)
Cancer care is a multidisciplinary field, and different types of cancer doctors, or oncologists, specialize in various aspects of cancer treatment. Understanding these specialties is the first step in finding the right expert for your needs. Often, your treatment plan may involve a team of specialists, but one will typically serve as your primary oncologist, coordinating your care. Here are some of the most common types of cancer doctors:
Medical Oncologist
A medical oncologist is often the primary care physician for individuals with cancer. These specialists treat cancer using chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and hormone therapy. They are experts in diagnosing the type and stage of cancer and developing a systemic treatment plan, meaning treatments that affect the whole body. Medical oncologists manage the overall medical care of cancer patients, coordinating with other specialists and managing treatment side effects. They are crucial in overseeing the entire cancer treatment process and ensuring a holistic approach to care.
Surgical Oncologist
Surgical oncologists are surgeons who specialize in using surgery to treat cancer. They perform biopsies to diagnose cancer, remove tumors and surrounding tissue, and sometimes perform palliative surgeries to alleviate symptoms or improve quality of life. Surgical oncologists work closely with other cancer specialists to determine if surgery is the appropriate treatment approach and to coordinate pre- and post-operative care. Their expertise is critical in cases where surgical removal of the tumor is a viable and necessary part of the treatment plan.
Radiation Oncologist
Radiation oncologists use radiation therapy to treat cancer. They plan and deliver radiation treatments to target cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Radiation therapy can be used to cure cancer, control its growth, or relieve symptoms. Radiation oncologists work with advanced technology to deliver precise radiation treatments, and they manage patients undergoing radiation therapy, monitoring for side effects and adjusting treatment plans as needed.
Hematologist-Oncologist
Hematologist-oncologists specialize in cancers of the blood, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, as well as other blood disorders. Hematology is the study of blood, and oncology is the study of cancer. These specialists are experts in diagnosing and treating blood cancers using chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation. They are also knowledgeable in managing non-cancerous blood disorders, making their expertise broad within the realm of blood-related conditions.
Gynecologic Oncologist
Gynecologic oncologists are specialists in cancers of the female reproductive system, including ovarian, uterine, cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. They are surgeons who have specialized training in treating these specific cancers. Gynecologic oncologists provide comprehensive care, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy, tailored to the unique needs of women with gynecologic cancers.
Pediatric Oncologist
Pediatric oncologists specialize in diagnosing and treating cancer in children and adolescents. Childhood cancers are often different from adult cancers and require specialized treatment approaches. Pediatric oncologists are trained to address the unique physical and emotional needs of young patients and their families. They often work in children’s hospitals and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive care.
Dermatologic Oncologist
Dermatologic oncologists are dermatologists with specialized training in diagnosing and treating skin cancers, such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. They are experts in surgical and non-surgical treatments for skin cancer, including Mohs surgery, excisional surgery, radiation therapy, and topical therapies. They also play a crucial role in the early detection and prevention of skin cancer.
It’s important to note that some oncologists, especially those in large cancer centers, may further specialize in treating specific types of cancer, such as breast, lung, prostate, or colorectal cancer. This level of specialization can be particularly beneficial if you have a rare or complex type of cancer, ensuring you receive care from a doctor with focused expertise in your condition. Understanding these different types of cancer doctors will empower you to seek out the most appropriate specialist for your specific needs.
Key Considerations When Selecting a Cancer Doctor
Before you begin your search for a cancer doctor, take some time to consider what qualities are most important to you in a physician. Thinking about your needs and preferences will help you narrow down your options and choose a doctor who is the best fit for your individual circumstances. Here are some key considerations:
Experience with Your Specific Cancer Type
One of the most critical factors is to choose a doctor who has significant experience treating your specific type of cancer. Cancer treatment is constantly evolving, with new research, standards, and guidelines emerging regularly. You want a cancer doctor who is not only familiar with your type of cancer but also stays updated on the latest advancements in its treatment. An experienced oncologist will be well-versed in the most effective treatment strategies and will be able to offer you the most current and evidence-based care.
Insurance Coverage and Network
Healthcare costs can be a significant concern, especially during cancer treatment. Therefore, it’s crucial to select a cancer doctor who is within your health insurance network, often referred to as a preferred provider. Choosing an in-network doctor will help minimize your out-of-pocket expenses and ensure that your insurance covers the costs of your treatment. Before making an appointment, verify with your insurance provider and the doctor’s office that they are in-network and accept your insurance plan.
Hospital Affiliation and Privileges
Consider the cancer center or hospital where your potential doctor practices and holds admitting privileges. Doctors can typically only admit patients to hospitals where they have privileges. Choosing a doctor affiliated with a cancer center or hospital that is convenient for you and that you feel comfortable with is important. Hospital affiliations can also indicate the resources and support services available to you, as major cancer centers often offer comprehensive care, including access to clinical trials, support groups, and advanced treatment technologies.
Comfort and Communication Style
Your relationship with your cancer doctor will be personal and ongoing, so it’s essential to choose someone with whom you feel comfortable and can communicate effectively. Consider factors such as language spoken, gender preference if any, and the doctor’s communication style. Some patients prefer a doctor with a more business-like and direct approach, while others value a doctor who is also attentive to their emotional well-being. Think about what kind of communication style best suits your needs and personality. Do you prefer a doctor who is very detailed in their explanations, or someone who is more concise? Finding a doctor whose communication style matches your preferences will enhance your comfort and trust in the doctor-patient relationship.
How to Find Potential Cancer Doctors
Once you have a clear understanding of your needs and preferences, you can begin the process of finding potential cancer doctors. There are several effective strategies to build a list of qualified oncologists to consider:
Referrals from Your Primary Doctor
Your primary care physician is an excellent starting point for referrals. They are familiar with your medical history and can provide recommendations based on your specific cancer type and location. Ask your doctor directly, “If you or someone you loved had this cancer, which doctor would you go to for treatment?” This question often prompts thoughtful and insightful recommendations. Even if you don’t explicitly ask, your doctor may suggest a specialist. If your diagnosis is uncertain but cancer is suspected, you can ask, “If you were in my place, which doctor would you see first?” Aim to get at least two or three names and inquire about their specialties to ensure they align with your needs.
Recommendations from Trusted Sources
Reach out to people you trust, such as friends, family members, or colleagues, especially if they have personal experience with cancer. They may be able to recommend cancer doctors based on their own experiences or the experiences of loved ones. If you know anyone who has been treated for the same type of cancer you have, their insights can be particularly valuable. Additionally, some hospitals and communities offer physician referral services, either by phone or online. These services can provide information about doctors in your area, including their specialties, certifications, office locations, and languages spoken. You can find these services by contacting local cancer centers or hospitals directly or visiting their websites.
Online Directories and Physician Finders
Numerous online directories are available that list medical doctors, including cancer specialists. These directories often allow you to search for doctors based on specialty, location, insurance accepted, and other criteria. Reputable online resources can be invaluable in your search. However, remember that inclusion in these directories does not constitute an endorsement by any organization, so always conduct thorough due diligence.
Checking Your Insurance Network
If you have health insurance, it is imperative to verify that the doctors you are considering are in your insurance network. Most insurance providers have online directories where you can search for in-network doctors. You can also call your insurance company’s member services hotline to confirm whether a specific doctor is covered under your plan. This step is crucial to avoid unexpected out-of-network costs.
Evaluating Your Options: Questions to Ask Potential Cancer Doctors
After compiling a list of potential cancer doctors, the next step is to gather more information to help you make your final decision. Contacting the doctors’ offices and asking pertinent questions is essential. Initially, you can call their offices to inquire if they are accepting new patients and if they participate in your health insurance plan. You may also want to ask about their affiliated hospitals and cancer centers.
If possible and if your insurance covers it, schedule initial consultation appointments with a few doctors. These consultations provide an opportunity to meet the doctor, assess their communication style, and ask more in-depth questions. Even if consultation visits are not covered, asking key questions over the phone can help you narrow down your choices before scheduling a full appointment. Here are some important questions to consider:
Experience and Specialization
- How much experience do you have treating my type of cancer? This is a crucial question to gauge the doctor’s expertise in your specific condition.
- If surgery is involved, how often do you perform this type of surgery? How many procedures have you done, and what is your success rate? For surgical oncologists, understanding their experience and success rates with specific procedures is vital. Clarify how they define “success,” as it can vary depending on the cancer type and treatment goals.
Board Certification and Credentials
- Are you board certified? Board certification indicates that a doctor has undergone additional training in a specialty and has passed rigorous examinations. While not all excellent doctors are board certified, it is often a marker of advanced expertise. You can verify board certification through the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) website.
Hospital Affiliations and Cancer Center
- At which cancer center or hospital(s) do you have privileges? Knowing where the doctor admits patients is important, especially if you anticipate needing hospital care. Affiliation with a reputable cancer center can also indicate access to comprehensive resources and a multidisciplinary team.
- Is the doctor affiliated with any medical schools? Affiliation with a medical school can suggest that the doctor is engaged in teaching and research, potentially indicating they are up-to-date with the latest advancements in cancer care. Doctors in academic settings often have access to a broader network of specialists and cutting-edge treatments.
Communication and Comfort Level
During your consultation, pay close attention to how comfortable you feel with the doctor and how well they communicate. Consider these questions for yourself:
- Did the doctor give me a chance to ask questions?
- Did I feel the doctor was actively listening to me?
- Did the doctor seem comfortable and forthcoming in answering my questions?
- Did the doctor explain things in a way that I could easily understand?
- Did I feel respected and that my concerns were valued?
- Did the doctor discuss treatment options and ask about my preferences?
- Did I feel the doctor spent enough time with me?
Trust your instincts. Your comfort level and confidence in your doctor are paramount. It may take more than one visit to fully assess the doctor-patient dynamic, but these initial impressions are crucial.
Clinical Trials and Research Involvement
- Are you or your practice involved in clinical trials of new treatments? Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet widely available. If clinical trials are of interest to you, this is an important question to ask.
Practical Matters: Office Hours and After-Hours Care
- What are your office hours? Ensure that the office hours are compatible with your schedule.
- How can I get help after hours, on weekends, or on holidays? Understand the doctor’s after-hours care arrangements and who to contact in case of emergencies or urgent concerns outside of regular office hours.
- Who will see me when you are away? Inquire about coverage arrangements to ensure continuity of care when your primary oncologist is unavailable.
- Who else will be on my cancer care team? Understanding the composition of your care team can help you anticipate the range of expertise and support available to you.
If you have any lingering doubts or concerns about a doctor’s reputation or approach, it can be helpful to ask around and seek additional opinions from other healthcare professionals or patients. Ultimately, you should feel confident and comfortable with your chosen cancer doctor, both in their medical abilities and their approach to patient care. If you are not getting the answers and reassurance you need, continue your search until you find the right fit.
The Importance of a Second Opinion
Even after you have chosen a cancer doctor and developed a treatment plan, seeking a second opinion is often advisable, especially if you feel uncertain about the proposed treatment approach. A second opinion can provide valuable reassurance or offer alternative perspectives and treatment options you may not have considered. For instance, if you are diagnosed with prostate cancer and a urologist recommends surgery, consulting with a radiation oncologist to explore non-surgical treatment options like radiation therapy can be beneficial. Getting a second opinion empowers you to make informed decisions about your cancer care and ensures that you are comfortable and confident with your treatment plan.
References
- American Board of Medical Specialties. About Board Certification. Accessed at www.abms.org/About_Board_Certification/ on September 15, 2021.
- American College of Surgeons. Commission on Cancer: Improving Outcomes for Patients with Cancer. facs.org. Accessed at https://www.facs.org/quality-programs/cancer/coc on September 15, 2021.
- National Cancer Institute. Finding Health Care Services. Cancer.gov. Accessed at https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/managing-care/services on August 3, 2021.
Last Revised: September 17, 2021
By The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team
