Team Approach

gedfamily · New User Joined: 17 Jan 2005 Posts: 1

My mother has recently been diagnosed with
Pleomorphic Rhabdomyosarcoma. We have seen
a surgeon, a "radiation guy" (what are they
called??) and a chemotherapist. They have
gotten together to decide on a course of
treatment. We are having problems knowing who
to call with questions. We have just found out
that the chemotherapist is the "lead". Is this
the normal approach?? Do we need to bring in
a 4th doctor to oversee the care?? Who will
handle post-treatment?? Also, my mom went for
her "simulation" this morning and it will be
2 weeks before she starts the actual radiation treatment, is that quick/slow/normal??

Thanks for any insight/guidance,
KJD

leo · Site Admin Joined: 23 Sep 2004 Posts: 1574

Hello

Usually the medical oncologist leads the team, and the radiation oncologist and the surgeon do their procedures. The medical oncologist is the one that follows the patient and makes all the arrangements for other procedures, treatments.

best regards,
Leo
_________________
Leonardo F - Webmaster Cancer Forums
Disclaimer: this information is for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice.

hhmv73a · Experienced user Joined: 16 Jan 2005 Posts: 95

The "chemotherapist" is usually a medical oncologist and the "radiation guy" is called a radiation oncologist. In UK or other European countries, radiotherapist means radiation oncologist, but in US, radiotherapist means a therapist in the department of radiation oncology.

Team approach is extremely important in cancer care. Usually the team is led by a medical oncologist.

Let us know if you have further questions.

Regards,

J. Jay Lu, M.D.
Diplomate, American Board of Radiology (Radiation Oncoogy)

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