Oncologists: What They Treat & Types of Cancer Specialists

An oncologist is a doctor whose speciality is treating cancer patients. These physicians have specialized training beyond the residency training that all doctors complete. Even among oncologists, some have training in sub-specialties related to the treatment of specific cancers.

Main Types of Oncologists

• A medical oncologist uses chemotherapy to treat patients who have cancer. A radiation oncologist uses radiation to treat patients who have cancer. A surgical oncologist uses surgery to treat cancer.

Other Sub-specialties

• In addition to the three main types of oncologists, there are two other sub-specialties. Gynecological oncologists treat women who have cancer in the female organs. Pediatric oncologists treat children who have cancer.

Training

• The training for an oncologist is extensive. These doctors have studied for four years of college, four years of medical school, and then four to six additional years of specialized training. Following the training, the doctors take an examination to become board certified.