Different Types of Oncologists and Their Specialties in Cancer Care

Oncology is the specialized branch of medicine devoted to the research, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. Like many other health conditions, there are different types of cancer, which leads to further specialization in the field of oncology to reflect the various medical procedures used in cancer treatment.

This blog explores the different types of oncologists to help you understand whom to see when you need care based on your diagnosis and treatment plan as part of the oncology care model.

Surgical Oncologist

There are three types of oncologists. The first one is the surgical oncologist, who specializes in the surgical removal of cancerous tumors. Surgical oncologists also perform specific types of biopsies, which are necessary in the diagnosis of cancer.

Radiation Oncologist

Another type of oncologist, radiation oncologist, specializes in treating cancer using radiation therapy. This treatment method uses high-energy X-rays to destroy cancerous cells. Sometimes, these high-energy X-rays can fail to destroy these cancer cells, and a radiation oncologist will use them to reduce or slow down the growth of tumors without affecting other healthy tissues around the area. Other radiotherapy interventions entail implanting radioactive sources directly into the tumor or in areas close to it.

Medical Oncologist

Medical oncologists are part of the three main divisions in the field of oncology. A medical oncologist specializes in using chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy to treat cancer.

In the field of oncology, medical oncologists count as the primary care providers for cancer patients. This role sees them take the lead in the development of cancer patients’ treatment while also working in conjunction with other medical doctors to provide patients with the best results.

A medical oncologist is also the head who continues to follow up on cancer patients’ treatment, do checkups, and provide post-treatment care.

Additional Oncology Sub-Specialties

Besides the three major subdivisions of oncology discussed above, there are sub-specialist types of oncologists, including the following:

• Gynecologic Oncologist: Gynecologic oncologists diagnose and treat cancers related to the female reproductive system. They specialize in different types of cancer, such as ovarian, cervical, and uterine cancer.
• Hematologist-Oncologist: Hematologist-oncologists are specialists in the field of oncology who treat blood cancers, such as multiple myeloma, lymphoma, and leukemia.
• Neuro-Oncologist: A neuro-oncologist specializes in treating cancers related to the spine, peripheral nerves, and the brain.
• Pediatric Oncologist: A pediatric oncologist treats cancers that affect young children, including leukemia, brain tumors, Ewing’s sarcoma, and osteosarcoma.

Partner With Oncology Practices to Drive Performance

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