Staff

What does each member of the medical team do?

Physicians
Our physicians have specialized training and experience in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Cancer is treated with surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. In many cases, these treatment approaches are combined.

Physicians make treatment recommendations based on information from a variety of sources, including the history and physical exam, laboratory and diagnostic tests, and assessments by nurses, social workers, and other members of the health care team. The physician then presents a recommended care plan, which details the expected benefits of treatment, the potential side effects of treatment, and the alternative approaches that could be considered.

Nurses
The nurses in the Cancer Centers are trained to assess cancer patients in a way that complement physician assessments.

Our advanced practice nurses have specialized cancer training and experience. Included in this group are nurse practitioners, who are also licensed to write prescriptions under the direction of a physician.

Our oncology nurse specialists are trained and certified to administer chemotherapy and to assess and treat chemotherapy-associated symptoms.

In addition, the Cancer Centers have highly specialized nurses with specific roles. Your interaction with these nurses will depend on your diagnosis and clinical situation.

Social Workers
Social workers can help you cope with all aspects of your cancer. The social workers in the Cancer Center are trained to assess the physical, psychological, social, and financial impact of your cancer, and help you deal with these issues.

Nutritionists
Nutritionists in the Cancer Centers have special training in assessing and correcting the nutritional aspects of your cancer care.

Cancer and cancer treatment can have profound effects on your diet, weight, and overall nutritional status, including loss of appetite, problems chewing and swallowing, change in bowel habits, and increased nutritional requirements. The nutritionists can advise you on how to maintain the best possible nutritional status.

Pharmacists
Pharmacists are available to provide information about your chemotherapy and other drugs you may be taking. It is important to understand the names of the medications, the prescribed dose and schedule, the potential side effects, and possible drug interactions.

Health Educators
Health educators provide guidance in determining what types of medical information can help you with your cancer diagnosis and treatment. They can provide you with information such as books, brochures, or material from the Internet that is tailored to meet your specific needs.

Clergy
We have clergy available to assist you with your spiritual needs. Our staff of denominational-specific clergy has extensive training and experience in helping people with cancer meet the spiritual challenges of their disease.

Patient Service Representatives (PSRs)
Patient service representatives — the people who greet you at the front desk — can help you in a number of ways. They are trained and experienced in helping you document your insurance coverage (including co-payments) and arrange your appointments. They can also provide you with information about what you can expect at the Cancer Center.

Administrative Staff
Administrative staff, such as your physician's secretary, can help you communicate with the physician and his or her team.

When you call the office, they will determine as precisely as possible the nature of your call, what action is required, and the relative urgency of your request. They will assist you in making appointments, with insurance, and with other needed documentation.

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