Each member of our team of healthcare professionals plays a special role in your care.
Some work directly with you to treat your cancer, others help you deal with the impact of cancer, while others may not deal with you directly but are still vital to your treatment.
Effective cancer care involves you, your family doctor, specialists and other healthcare professionals. Although you will see different healthcare professionals, your family doctor is still in charge of any general health problems you may have and continues to play a major role in your ongoing care. Your family doctor will receive regular reports regarding your cancer and care from your treatment team.
In addition to the staff you will meet regularly, your complete
cancer care team includes staff working in numerous areas such as patient records, radiation electronics and administration. Here are of some of the healthcare professionals you are likely to encounter during your
journey:
Counsellors are mental health specialists who can help you and your family understand, manage and cope with feelings, thoughts, worries and behaviours. Counsellors can connect you with the many
services and
support programs available at BC Cancer and in the community.
A nurse gives care. Nurses often have the most contact with you and will answer questions, give medicine and provide emotional support.
An oncologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer. A medical oncologist specializes in chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy. A radiation oncologist specializes in treatment using radiation therapy as the main mode of treatment.
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A pharmacist prepares cancer drugs and other medications and explains how they work.
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Radiation therapists plan and deliver radiation treatments according to the prescription of the radiation oncologist. They have expert knowledge of treatment principles and calculations required for safe and accurate treatment delivery.
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A registered dietitian can answer questions and provide counselling on
diet and nutrition throughout your treatment and recovery.
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To learn about more cancer care team members at BC Cancer, visit our
patient guide.
