Your Care Team at the Lifespan Cancer Institute

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