VIDEO: Clinical oncologist Alison answers some common questions from patients
With thanks to Dr Alison Tree, Consultant Clinical Oncologist at The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust.
About Clinical Oncologists
These are specially trained doctors in cancer treatment. They will help you decide the best treatment plan for your diagnosis. They will guide you through the options: considering your medical history and personal circumstances.
You should then be able to make an informed decision about your treatment.
If you are offered radiotherapy and decide to have it, your clinical oncologist will refer you to the radiotherapy department. This referral will begin the process of ‘planning out’ the treatment.
Clinical oncologists decide the treatment plan along with dosimetrists. The treatment plan is designed by the dosimetrist on a special computer using the scans taken at your planning appointment. They will consider:
- Your medical history
- Where the cancer is or the target
- Any sensitive structures nearby
Clinical oncologists will approve the treatment plan before it is used.
Clinical oncologists and therapeutic radiographers will monitor you through your treatment. They can offer support and advice when needed. They might refer you to other healthcare specialists who can help you.
After treatment, your clinical oncologists might book a follow up appointment with you. They will see how you are and talk through future management for your diagnosis.
Further information
Learn more information about side effects here
