What Is An Oncologist?

An oncologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.  There are three main types of oncologists:

• Medical oncologist—uses medicine (chemotherapy) to treat cancer
• Radiation oncologist—uses radiation to treat cancer
• Surgical oncologist—treats cancer with surgery

There are other subspecialties in oncology:

• Gynecological oncologist—treats women with cancer of the female organs
• Pediatric oncologist—treats children with cancer

It takes many years to become an oncologist.  After four years of college, the oncologist will spend four years in medical school.  After medical school, there will be specialized training of 4-6 years.  After these doctors have completed their residencies and fellowships in their area of study, many specialists will take an examination and if they pass this examination they will become board certified in their field.