Working with your healthcare team
Teamwork is needed to treat cancer. Before treatment begins, you will meet with members of your healthcare team. They will recommend treatment options and talk to you about the choices that are available to you. Your healthcare team will consider:
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the type of cancer you have
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the stage and grade of your cancer (how far it has progressed)
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your age
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your general health
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any other medical problems you might have
The team working with you may include many different healthcare professionals.
Surgeon |
A surgeon is a doctor who performs any biopsies (cells or tissues are removed from the body and examined to help with a diagnosis) or surgery that you may need. |
Surgical oncologist |
A surgical oncologist is a surgeon who has received specific training in treating cancer by removing lumps or tumours from the body. |
Radiologist |
A radiologist reads and interprets x-rays and other imaging tests. This member of your team may also perform biopsies during specialized x-ray procedures. |
Pathologist |
A pathologist looks at the tissue from the biopsy under a microscope to see if it has cancer cells. |
Medical oncologist |
A medical oncologist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of cancer using different medications, such as chemotherapy drugs. |
Oncology nurse |
An oncology nurse has received special education and has experience in caring for people with cancer. Oncology nurses provide information and support, and work in a variety of settings such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy departments, oncology units and in the community. |
Oncology pharmacist |
An oncology pharmacist prepares and dispenses cancer drugs and other medications, and helps teach you about your medications. |
Oncology social worker or psychologist |
An oncology social worker can help you and your family cope with cancer and its treatment. |
Physiotherapist |
A physiotherapist helps with the physical recovery from your illness. This member of your team can help maintain and help improve your overall fitness and health. |
Occupational therapist |
An occupational therapist helps you manage daily activities. This member of your team can design and provide devices to help you regain your independence and improve your quality of life. |
Registered dietitian |
A registered dietitian has received special education in nutrition and has additional clinical training. This member of your team can advise you about your diet. |
Plastic surgeon |
A doctor who specializes in reconstructive surgery to reduce scarring or disfigurement, or to improve appearance. |
Family doctor |
Your family doctor plays an important part in your general healthcare before, during and after your cancer treatments are over. |
If you are having radiation therapy
You are the most important member of your healthcare team. Your situation is unique and your treatment will be developed just for you. As a member of the team, you can:
- Be involved in decisions that affect you.
- Learn about your cancer and your treatments in a way that feels right for you.
- Talk to your healthcare team about your worries or concerns.
- Keep your doctor, clinic and hospital appointments.
- Write down questions to ask your healthcare team, so that you won’t forget them at your next appointment.
- Ask your healthcare team how you can contact them between appointments if you have any questions that need answers quickly.
Hear different people talk about their experience
Last modified on:
08 June 2010
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