Medical oncology

The Medical Oncology Department at Cancer Treatment Centers of America^® (CTCA) specializes in diagnosing cancer and delivering treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and hormone therapy, personalized to your needs. Your medical oncologist will typically serve as the leader of your care team, coordinating treatment options among your care team members.

Developing your treatment plan

With our patient-centered care model, your medical oncologist, clinic team and, if needed, your radiation oncologist, surgical oncologist or other cancer specialists, collaborate with one another on your care plan, informing and involving you throughout the process. You may also meet with clinicians from your extended care team, such as a registered dietitian or oncology rehabilitation therapist, who have the training and experience to help you manage the side effects of cancer and its treatment. Your care manager coordinates the team, seeing that your schedule is manageable and streamlined, answering your medical questions, and following up when necessary.

What to expect:

• During your initial evaluation,your medical oncologist will review your full diagnosis and medical history, and order additional diagnostic testing and evaluations as needed.

• At the end of your diagnostic evaluation,your medical oncologist will present you with a cancer treatment plan personalized to your individual needs. You and your medical oncologist will discuss the treatment options that are available for your type and stage of cancer—whether you are newly diagnosed or seeking a second opinion—and determine which options may be appropriate for you.

• Throughout your care,your medical oncologist will work closely with you to monitor your chemotherapy or other treatment regimen to determine how it’s working for you, and help reduce side effects and toxicity. 

An individualized approach

Our patient-centered model of care at CTCA^® brings a dedicated team of cancer experts together on a regular basis to discuss you, your cancer diagnosis, your treatment plan and your quality of life. Your medical oncologist will communicate regularly with the rest of your care team throughout your treatment. He or she will monitor the progress of your treatment and help proactively manage side effects, like gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue and insomnia, and neuropathy, so you can tolerate treatments, stay active and maintain your quality of life.

For example, prior to administering chemotherapy, your infusion nurses may provide pre-medications (prescribed by your medical oncologist) to decrease nausea and make your symptoms more tolerable. Your dietitian may also provide suggestions for ways to curb nausea.