(888) 552-6760 SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

Medical oncologist

This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by

Maurie Markman, MD, President, Medicine & Science

This page was updated on June 26, 2024.

According to data from the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) State of the Oncology Workforce in America, 13,365 physicians reported medical oncology or hematology/oncology as their primary practice in the United States—amounting to about six medical/hematology oncologists per 100,000 U.S. adults.

According to an ASCO practice survey published in 2018, the total number of oncology practices has been declining, but the size of existing practices has been increasing. The most recent ASCO survey shows many practices employ one to five oncologists, and 72 percent of practices have one location.

Medical oncologists treat cancer using certain cancer-fighting medications. Chemotherapy, given as a single drug or several drugs used together, is often used to treat, control and ease symptoms of cancer. Other drug treatments that may be recommended by medical oncologists include targeted therapy, hormone therapy and immunotherapy.

The number of patients who see a medical oncologist for chemotherapy as part of their cancer treatment varies based on the type of cancer and its stage. For example, according to the American Cancer Society, the percentage of people receiving chemotherapy for specific cancers is:

This overview will cover the basic facts about medical oncologists, including:

What is a medical oncologist?

A medical oncologist is a highly trained physician who is an expert in treating cancer with medications like chemotherapy and more targeted approaches. As a member of the cancer treatment team, a medical oncologist helps determine the medication plan, depending on the cancer type, size and location. The medical oncologist also factors in the patient’s age, general health, other health conditions and previous cancer treatments when developing the treatment plan.

Whether medication is given intravenously (the most common delivery option for chemotherapy) or as a pill, the medical oncologist oversees treatment, monitors the patient’s progress and helps manage any side effects.

A medical oncologist also works closely with other members of the cancer care team, such as surgeons and radiation oncologists, to manage cancer care.

Medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and surgical oncologists have different roles in patient care:

  • A medical oncologist diagnoses cancer and focuses on systemic treatments, including chemotherapy, biologics and hormone therapy.
  • A radiation oncologist is an expert in treating cancer with radiation therapy.
  • A surgical oncologist uses surgery to remove tumors, lymph nodes and/or distant metastasis, perform biopsies to diagnose cancer and treat symptoms as part of palliative care.

A medical oncologist may consult with surgeons and radiation oncologists when other treatments in addition to medication are needed.

Learn more about medical oncology

What training does a medical oncologist receive?

Medical oncologists are required to earn a bachelor’s degree, then a degree in internal medicine from a medical school, which takes four years to complete. Then they must complete a residency program, which may take from two to five years.

Medical oncologists also must take continuing education credits to maintain certifications.

Questions to ask the medical oncologist

Before beginning treatment, consider asking the medical oncologist these questions:

  • Who develops the plan for chemotherapy?
  • Will the plan be reviewed during treatment? By whom?
  • How will my chemotherapy be delivered? Will I need a port?
  • Which tests or scans do I need before starting chemotherapy?
  • How often will I need to go for treatments?
  • How long will the sessions take?
  • How many treatments will I need?
  • Which side effects should I expect?
  • How can I treat my side effects and make them more tolerable?
  • How will I know if the plan is working? Or if something needs to change?
  • What follow-up care will I need after chemotherapy?
  • Which symptoms need immediate care and attention?
  • Do I need to follow a special diet before or during chemotherapy?
  • Will I be able to work while receiving treatment?

Meet our medical oncologists

Expert cancer care

is one call away.
appointments in as little as 24 hrs.