Meet Your Cervical Cancer Treatment Team

Cancer isn't treated by just one physician, but a team of experienced doctors and other health care workers. These experts form your health care team and will ensure you receive the best care possible.

Your Cancer Treatment Team

Medical Oncologist or Gynecologic Oncologist: A medical oncologist specializes in treating cancer patients with chemotherapy or other medications.

Many cervical cancer patients see a gynecologic oncologist, who is experienced in treating gynecologic cancers with chemotherapy, surgery, and is active in radiation treatment. A gynecologic oncologist serves as the treatment team leader. Studies have shown better outcomes for women treated by gynecologic oncologists.

What type of oncologist you are treated by largely depends on your location and insurance carrier. However, it is ideal for women with gynecologic cancer to be treated by a gynecologic oncologist.

Radiation Oncologist: A radiation oncologist is a physician who specializes in radiation therapy. If you are not prescribed radiation therapy, then you will not see a radiation oncologist.

Radiation Technologist: A radiation technologist is responsible for administering prescribed radiation to a patient. He or she operates all radiation equipment and administers the treatment under the supervision of a radiation oncologist.

Surgeon/Surgical Oncologist: A general surgeon or surgical oncologist may be utilized for surgeries such as hysterectomies. A gynecologic oncologist may also perform surgeries related to gynecologic cancer.

Oncology Nurse: An oncology nurse is an RN who specializes in caring for those in cancer treatment. He or she is often the one who administers and monitors chemotherapy sessions.

Pathologist: A pathologist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and spread of disease by examining tissue, blood and fluid samples.

Dietitian: A dietitian is especially important for cancer patients undergoing treatment. Weight loss often occurs from the side effects of treatment. A dietitian will advise what foods are essential during treatment.

Social Worker: An oncology social worker assists patients and families with counseling, care planning, and finding needed resources.



References:

1. Walsh-Burke, Ph.D., MSW, Katherine. "AOSW PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE." Association of Oncology Social Work. 26 Dec 2006
   
2. "About SGO." Society of Gynecologic Oncologists. 26 Dec 2006