Cancer Treatments and Care Team

Our dedicated care team includes renowned experts and experienced professionals educated on the latest methods and technology. During diagnosis and treatment, patients and families may meet any or all of the following individuals.

Doctors

• Medical oncologist: A doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer using chemotherapy, hormone therapy, biotherapy and targeted therapy; A medical oncologist often is the main health care provider for someone who has cancer, and may coordinate treatment provided by other specialists.

• Surgical oncologist: A surgeon who specializes in biopsies and cancer surgery, performs the procedures and supervises post-operative care

• Radiation oncologist: A specialist in the use of radiation to treat cancer

• Psychiatrist: A medical doctor who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional and behavioral issues a patient may experience during cancer treatment

Nurses and Physician Assistants

• Chemotherapy nurse: A nurse who helps manage a patient's care and administer chemotherapy

• Nurse practitioner (NP): A nurse who is licensed at the state level, and certified by national nursing organizations, and who provides care to cancer patients, assists medical oncologists and sees patients for sick visits

• Nurse Navigator: A nurse who guides patients through diagnosis, treatment and recovery, while helping them make informed decisions and cope with the variety of issues. 

• Physician assistant (PA): A health professional who is licensed by the state to do certain medical procedures. A physician assistant provides care to cancer patients, assists medical oncologists and sees patients for sick visits.

• Radiation nurse: A health professional who specializes in caring for people who are receiving radiation therapy

• Research nurse: A nurse who, in addition to providing and coordinating clinical care, has a central role in ensuring participant safety, data recording and follow up

• Teach nurse: A nurse who will provide education regarding your cancer diagnosis regimen.

Other members of your care team

• Chaplain: A staff member who addresses the spiritual needs of patients and families of all faiths, including those who do not practice a religion

• Medical Assistant (MA): A health worker who aids nurses with certain procedures, including checking vital signs

• Clinical social worker: A licensed mental health professional who counsels cancer patients and their families and has specialized training on the impact of cancer on everyday life

• Integrative therapy practitioner: A therapist who helps with symptom management through massage, acupuncture, Reiki and other therapies

• Pharmacist: A health professional who prepares and dispenses medications and chemotherapy.

• Phlebotomist: A health worker trained to draw blood before chemotherapy treatments, and who assists with infusion

• Physical (PT) or occupational therapist (OT): A health professional trained in therapy for any physical difficulties that may arise from cancer or its treatment

• Radiation technician: A medical professional who delivers radiation treatments

• Registered dietitian: A food and nutrition expert who helps patients identify and meet nutritional needs during and after treatment

• Patient navigator: A health care team member who acts as an advocate for cancer patients, assisting them from diagnosis through treatment

• Social work coordinator: A member of the medical team who has earned a bachelor's degree in social work and are specially trained to help cancer patients with practical needs

• Volunteer: A member of the community who donates his time in a variety of ways, such as delivering reading materials, visiting patients and directing families and visitors to rooms and clinics