Four Questions You Should Ask Your Cancer Doctor

A cancer diagnosis can change a life forever. There are many types of cancer that affect different parts of the body. Trying to figure out where to get treatment and what type of doctor to see can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to do your research and ask the right questions.

Is it important for me to see a specialist for my type of cancer?

In the world of cancer doctors, or oncologists, there are generalists who treat different types of cancers and specialists who treat a particular type of cancer (or related cancers) — allowing them to focus their clinical and research efforts in that area. When a doctor has disease-specific expertise, it means they have completed additional intensive training in a chosen specialty, or their practice is solely focused on a specific type of cancer.

Cancer treatment is constantly evolving. When doctors are focused on one particular cancer or group of cancers, they stay current on the latest research and clinical trials, treatments, technologies and techniques. This focus is important because each type of cancer has its own nuances and complexities. It would be hard for one doctor to have the most up-to-date knowledge about every type of cancer. For example, in the last five years, we’ve changed how we approach certain types of breast cancer surgeries based on the latest research.

When we use the most up-to-date information on the treatments that work best for each individual cancer, it translates into better outcomes for patients.

Who will be involved in my treatment plan?

Because cancer is complex and different for every person, treatment often involves many specialists. The team typically includes specialists in surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, diagnostic radiology, interventional radiology and pathology, as well as other vital clinical staff, such as specialized oncology nurses, geneticists and dietitians.

A cancer treatment team made up of specialists who work together can offer patients the best options for treatment. Sometimes, for example, we recommend chemotherapy before surgery. This personalized treatment plan could result in less-invasive surgery or could shrink a tumor that would otherwise have been inoperable due to its size.

Personalized treatment, or precision medicine, specifically targets an individual’s cancer and is one of the newest approaches to cancer care. With precision medicine, physicians look at not just the type of cancer a person has, but also the person’s unique cell characteristics that drive cancer growth. The key is to identify a tumor’s distinct biology through next-generation gene sequencing and find the chinks in a tumor’s armor. Once a genetic alteration is found, the next step is choosing a drug that works against this vulnerability. Targeted drugs are often more effective than more generic regimens and produce fewer side effects. Precisely targeted treatments are also improving care through radiation therapy and cancer surgery.

Are you involved in research or clinical trials?

Research through clinical trials provides patients with access to treatment options on the forefront of medicine.

Many clinical trials are national and international in scope. Clinical trials bring patients the newest treatment approaches in surgery, radiation therapy and medical therapies. They also include nontreatment clinical research, such as quality of life studies.

Should I seek a second opinion, and how can I do it?

Seeking a second opinion is your choice as a patient. Your doctor shouldn't be offended if you choose to seek one. Cancer is a complex group of diseases with many treatment options available, and you need to feel comfortable with your treatment team. A second opinion will confirm your diagnosis and help you choose the best course of action for you. You could also learn about available treatment options you had not considered. If you seek a second opinion, consider visiting a hospital that treats a high volume of cancer patients with access to a team of specialists devoted to your type of cancer.

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