She was a young woman with metastatic breast cancer. The ophthalmology consultant focused on the tumour deposit in her orbit but the patient also wanted better general symptom control so that her young children would have good memories of what I am sure she knew would be her last Christmas with them. Most cancer patients need radiotherapy at some point, so choosing clinical oncology means you are there throughout their journey.
Once I started planning radiotherapy, I realised I really enjoyed the practical, three dimensional thinking required to target tumours but spare normal tissue. I confess I'm also a bit into the science behind the radiobiology, physics and the technology. I used to say to my junior doctors on the ward that they got a 'jaundiced view' of the specialty and that they ought to come to clinic to see what it's really like.
It is amazing to think that the vast majority of even quite intensive oncological treatment is given to outpatients, who will often remain at work during their chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Communication skills are central to oncology. Talking with patients and their families about their diagnosis, treatment and prognosis is a big part of the job, but working well with colleagues is also really important.
As a consultant you will probably focus on a specific cancer site for me it was thoracic malignancy - lung, pleural and thymic tumours and work in a multidisciplinary team MDT. You will liaise on a day-to-day basis with surgeons, pathologists, physicians, radiologists, nurses, radiographers and medical physicists. It's important to recognise your colleagues' expertise and know when to ask them for help.
You may be able to get a taste of oncology as part of a medical rotation. Ask your primary care doctor for a referral. Your doctor may be familiar with an expert best suited to handle the specifics of your case.
Meet with more than one doctor. Look for treatment centers with a multidisciplinary approach. This means each patient receives input from many cancer experts. The patient will be helped by specialists that include surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, oncology nurses and social workers.
All of these experts can work together to determine your best treatment plan. Find a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center. These centers have received recognition for their expertise. NCI maintains a list of its designated cancer centers. Ask oncologists and surgeons about their credentials and expertise. Cancer care experts expect to receive questions from patients and should not be offended. Nurses, therapists and other specialists must work together, and everyone must be willing to listen to the opinions of others to make a patient well.
But collaboration goes far beyond this. Asking questions about choices for treatment can give the patient some control — or at least the feeling of control — over her own life during a time where she may feel powerless. Of course, medical skills are important to be a successful oncologist. You must first be able to take all the information presented to you and determine the type and stage of cancer with which the patient is dealing. From there, you must determine the best form of treatment, be it surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or another method.
Often, this doctor is an oncologist. Oncologists specialize in treating cancer. Cancer treatment is an ongoing process. It is likely that you will continue to be treated by your oncologist and other members of your cancer care team for a long time.
This is because they will provide medical care as well as help you navigate the emotional impact of cancer on you and your family. That's why it is so important that you feel comfortable with your doctor and the rest of your cancer care team.
Oncologists practice in different settings. These include cancer centers, university hospitals, community hospitals, and local offices.
To find an oncologist, start by asking your primary care physician or family doctor. You can also call your health insurance company or nearby hospitals. Sometimes, patient advocacy groups are a source for specialists in a specific field. Family and friends can also be a good resource for local doctors and for talking through your options. The American Medical Association U. S only. The American College of Surgeons Worldwide.
Start by collecting several names of prospective doctors. These may be helpful if you want a second or third medical opinion before you choose an oncologist and begin treatment.
Learn more about seeking a second opinion. Choosing an oncologist even from a few names can feel overwhelming.
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