Medical oncologists are medical doctors who specialize in the
diagnosis and treatment of cancer. They may be involved in determining the type
and extent of cancer and providing treatments such as chemotherapy.
After treatment, oncologists provide follow-up care to monitor the
progress of people who have had cancer and resume care for them if their cancer
returns. Medical oncologists may further specialize in treating certain types
of cancers or treating specific age groups, such as pediatric oncologists, who
only treat children.
Medical oncologists are certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
Last Revised:
October 11, 2012
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Donald Sproule, MD, CM, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine & E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine