A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and treatment options, considerations and decisions can be complex. The medical oncologist plays a crucial role in a patient’s cancer care by facilitating the complex process of diagnosis, treatment and follow up by coordinating the full spectrum of care for his or her patients.

The medical oncologist usually serves as the main point of contact and manager of all areas of cancer care.

Medical oncologists offer expertise and cancer care management

Medical oncologists have the latest knowledge of all areas of cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy and biological therapy. They have expertise in pain management, treatment side effects and psychological and social needs of cancer patients.

Their breadth of knowledge and expertise enables them to determine the best plan of care for each patient.

• Determining the proper medications and dosages
• Consulting with radiation therapists, surgeons and other specialists to coordinate the best care plan
• Addressing treatment side effects and developing strategies to improve patient comfort
• Coordinating with psychologists, social workers and other practitioners to ensure patients’ and families’ emotional needs are met

Treatment options

The medical oncologist will determine medications and treatment options, which often include a combination of methods, including:

• Chemotherapy
• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Interventional Oncology
• Biotherapy (also known as biologic therapy or immunotherapy). In this approach, the immune system is stimulated by introducing proteins or other components that allow the patient’s own immune system fight the cancer more effectively.