What is a Medical Oncologist?
Transcript:
What is a medical oncologist?
As a cancer patient, you’ll need to receive care from a medical oncologist. A medical oncologist is a doctor who has special training in diagnosing and treating cancer, and is typically the main health care provider for cancer patients. Medical oncologists use treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy to help their patients. Your medical oncologist may also provide supportive care and coordinate treatment given by other specialists.
When will you need to see a medical oncologist?
Well, if you notice any changes or worsening symptoms, inform your primary care physician, also known as a PCP. Your primary care physician, or PCP, may recommend a series of preliminary tests, such as blood tests or imaging to gather more information. If test results indicate a possible cancer diagnosis, your primary care physician will refer you to a medical oncologist who specializes in your cancer type. The medical oncologist will then confirm your diagnosis and they’ll work with you to create the best treatment plan for your specific situation.
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