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Being diagnosed with cancer can be terrifying. It can be difficult to begin finding a doctor at any time, but making a decision about the right oncologist generally needs to be made during a period of high stress and emotion. The oncologist you choose will affect the treatment you receive, and may even determine whether or not you beat your cancer, so it's important to make an informed, well researched choice. This page will outline some important points about how to choose an oncologist.
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Step 1: Determine What You Need from an Oncologist
You'll want to find the most qualified oncologist you can, but there are some other things you need to consider, in addition to education and training.- What type of oncologist do you need? Medical oncologists take a medical approach to treatment, radiation oncologists use radiation to kill cancer cells, and surgical oncologists remove disease surgically. Whoever you choose as a primary oncologist, you'll want to make sure that the team they work with includes oncologists well qualified in the other areas.
- Are you willing to travel anywhere, or do you have geographic limitations?
- Does your insurance plan require you to elect an oncologist from a pre-screened list, or require you to get a referral from your primary care physician?
Step 2: Get Referrals for an Oncologist
- The doctor who gave you the initial cancer diagnosis will probably give you a referral to an oncologist they are comfortable with. You should ask them for a few alternatives as well.
- Your local hospital can give you a list of oncologists who have privileges at the hospital.
- The National Cancer Institute has a list of designated cancer centers you can contact to find an oncologist.
Step 3: How to Select an Oncologist
- Check with the state medical board to confirm that the oncologist is licensed. Some states also provide information about malpractice lawsuits that may be useful.
- Make sure that he oncologist is board certified in the appropriate area of specialty.
- Interview each oncologist who's made your short list, to make sure you're comfortable with their expertise, personal style, office, and treatment approach.
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