Is an oncologist also a surgeon?

Surgical oncologists are general surgeons with specialty training in procedures for diagnosing, staging (determining the stage of cancer), or removing cancerous growths. The most common procedures performed by surgical oncologists are biopsies and surgery for cancerous growth removal.

How long does it take to become a surgical oncologist?

Surgical oncology is a two- or three-year fellowship after one completes a five-year general surgery residency. You do a fellowship to subspecialize and train in surgical oncology.

What is the difference between an oncologist and a medical oncologist?

An oncologist may also be called a cancer specialist. The field of oncology has 3 major areas based on treatments: medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. Medical oncologists treat cancer using medication, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.

What is the difference between hematology and oncology?

Hematologists specialize in diagnosing and treating blood diseases. Oncologists specialize in diagnosing and treating cancers. A hematologist oncologist specializes in both. You might see a hematologist oncologist if you have blood cancer or suspected blood cancer.

Why would a doctor send you to an oncologist?

You will likely be referred to an oncologist if your doctor suspects that you have the disease. Your primary care physician may carry out tests to determine if you might have cancer. If there are any signs of cancer, your doctor may recommend visiting an oncologist as soon as possible.

What does a medical oncologist do?

A doctor who has special training in diagnosing and treating cancer in adults using chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy. A medical oncologist often is the main health care provider for someone who has cancer.

Why is my doctor sending me to a hematologist oncologist?

Why would someone be referred to a hematologist-oncologist? It’s most often because an abnormality was detected during a blood test. Blood is made up of four components: white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets and plasma, and each has a specific function: White blood cells fight infection.