An oncologist is a healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer. They’ll diagnose your cancer and identify treatment options. They’ll discuss each option’s benefits and side effects. They also oversee your treatment and manage your post-treatment care.
An oncologist is a healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer. Oncologists manage your cancer treatment throughout your illness. They’ll:
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Cancer is a multifaceted illness, which is why there are several different types of oncologists. Some oncologists specialize in certain treatments. Other oncologists specialize in certain kinds of cancer. Here are some examples of the different types of oncologists:
All oncologists’ education begins with obtaining a bachelor’s degree and a medical degree. Oncologists who specialize in medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology or hematology oncology complete residencies and fellowship programs before obtaining certification.
Here are educational requirements for each specialty:
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Different cancers affect your body in different ways. Generally speaking, you might see an oncologist if you talk to your primary care physician about a change in your body and they recommend you have some preliminary tests. You likely will be referred to an oncologist if your tests indicate you have cancer.
No, seeing an oncologist doesn’t mean you have cancer. You’re seeing an oncologist because you have symptoms that might be cancer. Your visit to an oncologist is an opportunity for you to talk to a specialist about your symptoms. Your oncologist might order tests to learn more about your symptoms.
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You’re seeing an oncologist because there’s reason to believe you might have cancer. At your first appointment, you and your oncologist will discuss your situation. They’ll ask about your medical history, such as other medical conditions and prior surgeries. If you were referred by another healthcare provider, they’ll review that healthcare provider’s notes.
Cancer is an ancient illness. Centuries ago, early Greek and Roman physicians studying cancerous tumors likened cancer to a crab, possibly because spreading tumors resembled legs spreading out from crab bodies. Oncology — the study and treatment of cancer — takes its name from the Greek word “oncos,” which means swelling and refers to the way Greek physicians described how tumors grew.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
You might be anxious about seeing an oncologist because you’re worried you might have cancer. And if you’re diagnosed with cancer, you might be frightened by the news. You might be frustrated, too, because you have questions for which there are no easy or black-and-white answers. Your oncologist understands those feelings. They know what you’re going through. If you have cancer, every appointment is an opportunity to talk about your concerns and ask questions. Your oncologist is there to help you however they can.
Last reviewed on 12/01/2021.
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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy