Treating cancer can require that many different types of doctors, nurses, and specialists become part of your healthcare team. Here are their job titles and roles:
Medical oncologist
This is an important doctor to find because they can help you decide the best treatment options for you. Once you engage with a medical oncologist, he or she will refer you to other specialists whom you may meet with as well.
Oncology nurse
A nurse specially trained to support people with lung cancer. Some oncology nurses specialize in giving infusions and may be called infusion nurses.
Radiation oncologist
A cancer doctor that specializes in radiation therapy. This therapy is available in several forms, for both inside and outside of the body.
Pulmonologist
A doctor who understands and treats diseases of the lungs.
Thoracic surgeon
A surgeon who has special training to treat chest and lung diseases with surgery.
Nutritionist/Dietician
An expert in nutrition and diet who can help people dealing with weight loss or gain and give advice about the special diets recommended for people with cancer.
Psychiatrist or psychologist
Someone specially trained to talk through the emotions and feelings associated with lung cancer. Only a psychiatrist may be able to prescribe medication if needed.
Primary care physician
A doctor who you see on a regular basis for general medical symptoms and checkups.
Nurse practitioners
These are nurses with an advanced degree and who are specially certified. They work closely with doctors and take an important role in caring for people with serious illnesses.
Physician assistants (PAs)
Specially trained to help doctors, PAs can do everything from doing physical exams to diagnosing to helping with surgery.
Navigators (sometimes called a nurse navigator):
Help people make their way through the healthcare system during lung cancer treatment.
Respiratory therapist
A healthcare practitioner that specializes in techniques and treatments to help improve breathing.
Physical therapist
Doctors who help people with strength and movement throughout treatment.
Case worker
Helps with everything from home healthcare and transportation to treatment plans to helping families deal with serious illnesses.
Palliative care team
A team that can help manage symptoms, such as pain, throughout treatment. Palliation medicine is very important through cancer management.
Working closely with your healthcare team can help you feel more supported. It can also help you better understand what’s happening within your body, and how it’s being treated.