Book the best Oncologists for your needs

What is an oncologist?

An oncologist is a medical physician specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of different kinds of cancer. They are the primary care provider for a person with cancer, managing the patient's care throughout the disease's course.

What is a cancer doctor called?

Oncologists are commonly referred to as cancer doctors or cancer specialists based on their specific area of expertise.

When should I see an oncologist?

Most patients see an oncologist after their primary care doctor refers them, usually because a test, scan, or physical exam suggests the possibility of cancer, or a diagnosis has already been confirmed. Your doctor may refer you to an oncologist in several cases:

• You have abnormal test results if an imaging test, like a CT scan, MRI, or mammogram, or blood work, shows something unusual.
• You have a confirmed biopsy in which a pathologist checked your tissue samples and found cancer cells.
• Your primary doctor is worried about your ongoing symptoms and thinks cancer might be a possible cause.
• You have a family history of a specific type of cancer and want to discuss your risk and screening options, possibly with a genetic counselor.
• You have been diagnosed with cancer and want to get another expert's opinion on your diagnosis or treatment plan.

When you're ready to take the next step, find and book with an oncologist near you on Zocdoc.

What conditions do oncologists treat?

Oncologists treat all conditions classified as cancer, managing patients with both solid tumors (masses in organs) and hematological (blood-related) malignancies. Here are some conditions they can treat:

• Breast cancer is found in breast cells, mainly in the ducts (tubes that carry milk) or lobules (glands that produce milk). It is the most common cancer in women worldwide.
• Lung cancer can be categorized into non-small cell and small cell types. It is a leading cause of cancer death worldwide, often linked to tobacco smoke.
• Colorectal cancer is triggered in the colon or rectum, often as a noncancerous polyp that can be detected and removed during routine screenings like a colonoscopy.
• Blood cancers are mainly of two types: leukemia and lymphoma. Leukemia affects the body's blood-forming tissues, such as the bone marrow and the lymphatic system, whereas lymphoma begins in lymphocytes, cells of the immune system.
• Prostate cancer is a common cancer in men that forms in the prostate gland, which produces seminal fluid. It is usually slow-growing, though some types can be aggressive.
• Skin cancer has two main types: melanoma and non-melanoma. Melanoma is serious and can spread quickly if untreated, but it is highly treatable if caught early. Non-melanoma includes basal cell and squamous cell cancers, which are more common and less likely to spread.
• Gynecologic cancers refer to cancers of the female reproductive system, including ovarian, cervical (often linked to HPV), and uterine (endometrial) cancers.

What procedures and treatments do oncologists provide?

Oncologists create and manage a patient's treatment plan, often working in collaboration with a team of specialists. Here are standard procedures and treatments offered by an oncology team:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Immnunotherapy
• Targeted therapy
• Clinical trials

How do I choose the right oncologist?

When choosing an oncologist, consider their specialization in your specific type of cancer and the quality of care provided at their affiliated hospitals. Effective communication is crucial, so make sure you feel comfortable asking questions. Additionally, confirm that they accept your insurance, and read patient reviews for insights into their experiences. To find a top-rated oncologist near you, visit Zocdoc to schedule an appointment immediately.

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.