If you are diagnosed with cancer, it is a good idea to find out about some good cancer treatment centers of America. You can contact your state’s health department, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) or the American Medical Association (AMA) for information on cancer specialists and treatment centers.
It is also important to know a little about the people involved in your treatment. Most cancer treatment centers of Americainvolve many types of healthcare professionals who form the “cancer care team”. This team includes the following professionals:
Oncologist:
An oncologist is a physician with special training in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.Your oncologist will work with you to create a treatment plan and acts as the coordinator of your cancer care program.Oncologists may be a medical or radiation oncologists.
Oncology nurses:
Oncology nurses have special training in cancer and caring for patientsduring treatment. They help carry out the treatment plan that your oncologist will prescribe. Oncology nurses guide patients though treatments and also help in giving cancer medications, checking your progress, and answering your questions about treatment. They are also trained to monitor side effects if you are undergoing chemotherapy.
Surgeon:
Once you have been diagnosed, you may see a surgeon who, in turn, will refer you to an oncologist.
Psychiatrists and psychologists:
Cancer treatment is difficult for anyone to cope with and most patients need some help to go through it. Psychiatrists and psychologists are specialists that can help if you have problems with depression or mental health.Psychiatrists can prescribe medications such as antidepressants. Both specialists can help patients with counseling and other depression treatment methods.
Dietitians:
Cancer and cancer treatment (medications, chemotherapy etc.) can make eating difficult. Some people tend to lose weight or have trouble eating any food. Dietitians help people maintain healthy eating habits during cancer treatment.
Social workers:
Social workers help understand your diagnosis and treatment and assist in finding support groups or other cancer-related services. They also provide counsel to you and your family, if needed.
Rehabilitation specialists:
People with cancer sometimes need help recovering after treatment. They need help to get back to their daily lives. Physical therapists, occupational therapists, respiratory therapistsandspeech therapists, can be helpful to many patients.
Home health aides:
Home health aides specialize in helping patients manage tasks at home during or after treatment. Theyhelp with everyday chores, such as cooking food or cleaning.
Others who are involved in the treatment process include Hematologists, Pathologists, Lab technicians, radiation technicians, and pharmacists.
