Who are medical oncologists?
Medical oncologists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and management of cancer. Many medical oncologists are also hematologists, or specialists who treat and manage blood disorders.
The team of medical oncologists at Baptist Cancer Center are highly trained, experienced and widely respected physicians who are dedicated to advancing diagnostic technologies and treatments. Every team at Baptist Cancer Center includes one or more of our medical oncologists.
What does a medical oncologist do?
Your medical oncologist will be with you throughout your cancer journey, from explaining your diagnosis to reviewing your treatment options and recommending tests and follow-up care. He or she may order diagnostic testing or imaging and coordinate your treatment with chemotherapy, hormone therapy and other medications. Medical oncologists also assist with clinical trials or other complementary and integrative therapies.
Your medical oncologist will coordinate with your health care team, which may include your primary care doctor, a radiation oncologist, a surgical oncologist, your nurse navigator, a financial counselor and a dietitian. Treatments managed by medical oncologists include:
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Monoclonal antibodies
- Targeted drug therapy
- Supportive and palliative care therapies
- Experimental therapies (clinical trials)
- Complementary and integrative therapies
Hematologists coordinate with your health care team regarding your blood or bone marrow conditions or cancers. They often will treat non-cancerous conditions, such as various types of anemia and blood cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. They may coordinate with your Baptist Cancer Center care team or with our malignant hematology and stem cell transplant providers if stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy is needed.
A continuum of care
Baptist Cancer Center is committed to providing Mid-South physicians, cancer patients and their families with the assurance and confidence that compassionate, advanced cancer care services are nearby. Our services are carefully curated to provide expert care and support from the moment you enter our doors through your recovery — and beyond.
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