What does an oncologist do? A cancer specialist explains

"What does an oncologist do?” It sounds like a simple question, but if you are facing a new diagnosis of cancer or walking into a cancer specialist's office for the first time, it is one of the first questions you likely will ask.

If you have just been referred to me, or to someone like me, there is a good chance you are sitting with many emotions. Maybe even a little fear. And a lot of questions.

An integral part of my role as an oncologist is to answer your questions the way I wish every person could hear it: directly, honestly and with the reminder that you, and your loved ones, are not alone in this journey.

What is an oncologist?

At the most basic level, an oncologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer with medication. But that single sentence does not fully capture what this work truly involves.

Oncology is not just a medical specialty. It is a relationship. From the moment I meet someone, my role is to understand not only their condition but their life, their priorities and their goals for care. 

My training included four years of medical school, followed by a three-year residency in internal medicine, and finally another three years in a fellowship specifically focused on oncology. That is a long road, and I chose it because this work matters to me. I find great joy in being the one to walk through this journey with people.

Cancer touches nearly every person in some way. This year in the United States, more than 2.1 million new cancer diagnoses are projected. I want to be someone who can do something about it.

What does a medical oncologist do, day to day?

People may assume I spend my time in a lab, in an operating room or reviewing charts behind a desk in an office. But in reality, my days are built around people. Every appointment is a chance to learn more about where someone's condition stands and what we can do next.

Here is a closer look at what that means when I walk through the doors every day:

• Reviewing and confirming a diagnosis. Before I can treat anything, I need to know what we are dealing with. I look at pathology reports, imaging scans and lab results to build a complete picture of what type of cancer is present, where it is and how it is behaving. I talk with pathologists, radiologists and surgeons to get a better understanding of what others are seeing and what treatment options are available.
• Staging the cancer. Staging tells me how far a condition has progressed and if it has spread. It shapes almost every decision I make about treatment, and I take this step seriously and carefully.
• Developing a treatment plan. This is one of the most important things I do, and it is never a one-size-fits-all approach. I look at the biology of the cancer, the person's overall health and what outcomes matter most to them before recommending a path forward.
• Coordinating with other specialists. Cancer care is rarely handled by just one doctor. I work closely with surgeons, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, nurse navigators, social workers, dietitians and many others to make sure every part of your care is aligned.
• Monitoring and adjusting treatment. Once a treatment plan is identified, I keep a close eye on how things are going. We meet regularly to discuss side effects and monitor response to treatment. If a modification is needed, we adapt.
• Supporting survivorship and your long-term health. As an oncologist, my work does not end when your active treatment is over. I help plan for what comes next, including monitoring for recurrence and supporting your overall well-being.
• The most important part of my job is listening. Before I talk about scans or treatment options, I ask questions. What are your concerns? What does a good outcome look like for you? What matters most in your daily life? Those answers shape everything. 

No two days look exactly the same. But what remains constant is the purpose behind every decision I make for the people who put their trust in me. My goal is to care for people while guiding them in their treatment. 

Different types of oncologists on your care team

One thing that surprises a lot of people is that oncology is comprised of a whole family of specialties, each focused on a different aspect of cancer care. 

There are several types of oncologists, and depending on your individual diagnosis and treatment plan, you may work with more than one of us. Understanding who does what can make your care feel a lot less overwhelming and that you are being looked at from every angle.

Medical oncologist

This is frequently the first specialist a person sees after a cancer diagnosis. I am a medical oncologist. My focus is on systemic treatments, medicines or therapies that travel through the body to reach cancer cells wherever they may be. This includes chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and hormone blocker therapy. I also help coordinate care with other physicians on the care team. You might think of me as the “quarterback” of your care team, meaning I help coordinate the larger picture of treatment.

Surgical oncologist

A surgical oncologist specializes in removing tumors and, in some cases, nearby tissue or lymph nodes. Depending on your type of cancer, such as breast cancer or colorectal cancer, surgery is often a key part of treatment. These specialists are deeply skilled in operating with precision while protecting as much healthy tissue as possible.

Radiation oncologist

Radiation oncologists use targeted energy to damage or destroy cancer cells. The technology in this area has advanced dramatically, and today's radiation treatments can be highly precise, minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue and organs.

Hematologic oncologist

These specialists focus on cancers of the blood and bone marrow, such as leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. Their work often involves a combination of systemic therapy and, in some cases, bone and marrow transplants.

Gynecologic oncologist

This type of oncologist specializes in cancers of the female reproductive system, including ovarian, cervical and uterine cancers. They are trained in both surgery and medical management of these conditions.

Cardio-oncologist

A cardio-oncologist is trained in both heart health and cancer care, with one clear priority: protecting your heart before, during and after treatment. 

What does an oncologist do on a first visit?

I know walking into an oncologist's office for the first time may feel daunting. Your first visit is largely about gathering information and developing an initial plan. Your oncologist will review all your records, including any pathology reports, imaging and lab work. You will be asked about your medical history and your family’s medical history, your current symptoms and how you have been feeling overall. 

This first appointment is a time for big decisions and also to start building a relationship and making sure we all understand what we are working with and your individual care goals.

Your oncologist may order additional tests to get a more complete picture before discussing treatment options. Once we have the full story, we will sit down together and talk through what your care could look like. Your oncologist should always have time to answer questions and ensure you understand your choices before anything is decided.

Here are a few suggestions that can help you prepare for your first visit with an oncologist:

• Bring any records, scans or biopsy results you already have.
• Write down questions you have ahead of time so you do not forget anything in the moment.
• Bring a trusted family member or friend. Having a second set of ears in the room is helpful as you are likely sharing a lot of information.
• Know that it is okay to ask us to slow down, repeat something or explain it differently.

5 tips on how to choose the right oncologist for you

If you have been referred to an oncologist and are wondering how to evaluate your options, here are five things worth considering:

1. Look for a specialist who focuses on your type of cancer. Oncology covers a wide range of conditions, and there is real value in seeing someone who has extensive experience with your specific diagnosis.
2. Ask about the care team. Great cancer care is a team effort. Find out who else will be involved in your treatment and how they communicate with each other.
3. Consider access to clinical trials and advanced therapies. Health systems may offer access to research-backed treatments and the latest options in cancer care.
4. Pay attention to how you feel in the room. You should feel heard, not rushed. A good oncologist will take time to explain your options and answer your questions.
5. Ask about cancer support services. Cancer care that also includes supporting your emotional and mental health, financial assistance and social services can help lead to better outcomes. Look for a team that treats the whole person and not just the condition.

Getting a second opinion is also completely reasonable and something many oncologists encourage. When decisions are significant, having another perspective can bring peace of mind to you and your loved ones.

Cancer care that starts with you

I became an oncologist because I believe that a cancer diagnosis, as serious as it is, does not have to feel like the end of possibilities. I want to be the one to offer hope and courage. What we offer today, in terms of treatments, technology and team-based care, is remarkable. 

The rapidly changing landscape of oncology is both exciting and challenging, and I personally enjoy witnessing how these changes and innovations directly impact the lives of the people I come into contact with every day.

I’m honored to be part of a team that brings together some of the most experienced specialists, supported by a network of resources designed to make your journey feel as supported as possible.

If you have been referred to an oncologist or are wondering what your next step should be, I encourage you to reach out. Ask the questions you have been holding. Let us help you understand what is ahead. You deserve clear answers, compassionate care and an oncologist who will walk this road with you from the very first visit. 

Learn more about cancer care and find a cancer specialist today.