Receiving a diagnosis of breast cancer can be an enormous shock, and navigating what to do next can be overwhelming. After diagnosis, a patient may often have many questions. Who is going to treat it? When, and with what? Do I need a specialist, and if so, what kind?1
The management of breast cancer is very individualized—no 2 patients go through the same process. As a result it is very important to know who will be working with you as your care team. These individuals include oncologists, radiologists, specialized breast surgeons, your primary care clinician, nurses, pharmacists, social workers, advocacy groups, and many others, depending on who you may want to involve.1Â
In cancer care today, breast cancer requires the expertise of a wide range of specialists, along with effective communication among them and with you to create the best possible treatment plan.2,3Â Below is a list of some of the most common individuals who would be part of your care team.4
This is a doctor who specializes in medication-based treatment for cancer. This doctor will typically be the main source of information who you will visit throughout your care journey. The medical oncologist provides guidance surrounding medications, treatment options, lab test values and what they mean, side effects, and an ongoing assessment of your overall health.
This is a specialized doctor who focuses on removing tumors using surgery. The surgical oncologist often uses diagnostic scans to help determine the best course of treatment. This doctor also collaborates with other specialists and caregivers to set up the best road to success. Not all patients with breast cancer need a surgical approach.
This is a specialized doctor who treats cancer using radiation therapy. The radiation oncologist can design your treatment plan based on the type of cancer and location of any tumors. Not every cancer patient will need radiation as part of their treatment plan.
This is a doctor who specializes in the reconstruction of breasts after cancer removal surgery or therapy.
The genetic counselor specializes in medical genetics and assesses the risks a patient may have for a genetic link to cancer. A genetic counselor evaluation is not necessary for every patient but, if so, the clinician will take an extensive history and gene analysis, as well as study any diagnostic exams and medical history to help assess your cancer risk.
A patient navigator is typically a nurse, social worker, community health worker, or other healthcare professional who helps guide patients every step of the way about their cancer care. Items this person may discuss include financial aspects such as the cost of medications and office/hospital visits; time off from work; insurance; mental aspects of cancer such as fear, anxiety, and depression; misinformation surrounding the disease; language barriers; and many others.
This individual will be in constant contact with your oncology team and continue to provide you with overall medical care.
You may also have many other caregivers on your treatment team including obstetrics/gynecology (OB/GYN) specialists, physician assistants (PAs), nurse practitioners (NPs), nurses, psychologists, nutritionists, social workers, patient/nurse navigators, and other health professionals.4Â
