TREATMENT & CARE

The breast cancer team

You will be treated by a team of professionals, including some or all of the following:

• General Practitioners (GP) – The one who usually arranges your first referral to a specialist breast clinic.

• Oncologist – A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of cancer patients. A clinical oncologist is trained in giving radiotherapy and chemotherapy, while a medical oncologist administers chemotherapy only.

• Radiologist –  A medically qualified doctor who specializes in the use of imaging techniques (X-rays, ultrasound, CT etc) for diagnosis, and the one who will interpret your mammogram.

• Pathologist – A doctor specializing in identifying diseases by studying cells and tissues under a microscope.

• Radiographer – A non-medically qualified person who assists the radiologist in imaging and is trained in using X-ray machines. Some also give radiotherapy.

• Breast Surgeon – A specialist in breast surgery who also does fine needle aspiration and biopsy. Some may also do reconstructive surgery.

• Breast-care nurse – Nurse with special training in dealing with breast disease, who offers information, support and advice.

• Ward nurses – A nurse who plans your care on the ward.

• Physiotherapist – Gives you exercises to do after surgery for you to regain your strength and fitness. 

• Psychologist – Professional counselling that can help you cope with your illness, and deal with decisions about treatment, depression, anxiety as well as family issues.
  
  
• Social worker – Can help you work out practical difficulties including transport, childcare and financial issues.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor