17TAB TWO | MY TREATMENT PLAN patient guide
PHYSICIANS Attending Physician: Physicians at the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center specialize in the treatment of specific cancer diseases and
conditions. The Attending Physician develops, coordinates, supervises and
evaluates your treatment plan.
Medical Oncologist: A Medical Oncologist has extensive training in specific types of cancer and will typically oversee your chemotherapy and/
or other medical treatments.
Surgeon: Some conditions require surgery as a part of the treatment plan. The attending Surgeon will work with you to develop an operative
plan for your condition and then conduct the procedure. A cancer surgeon
specializes in cancer surgery and supervises post-operative care.
Radiation Oncologist: For some conditions, radiation therapy and/or radio-surgery are recommended for the treatment of certain disease processes. A Radiation Oncologist oversees the development and monitoring of radiation treatment plans.
Gynecologic Oncologist: A gynecologic oncologist is a physician first trained in obstetrics and gynecology who has three to four additional years of training in gynecologic cancers. These specialists combine knowledge of gynecology with
expertise in detecting and treating cancers of the female reproductive system.
Psychiatrist and Psychologist: A cancer journey can be a physically and emotionally exhausting journey. A psychiatrist and/or psychologist may help evaluate and manage the psychological and emotional issues you may experience.
Oncology Fellow: Oncology Fellows are all fully licensed physicians doing an intensive and extended course of study in oncology. The Fellows work alongside the Attending Physicians, Oncologists and Surgeons to take care of patients
undergoing treatment.
Intern and Resident: Interns and Residents are licensed physicians completing their training in medicine. UAB is a top-ranked academic medical center and we provide hands-on training for young physicians. Interns and Residents may
participate in your care in some settings while you are at UAB.
NURSES AND PHYSICIAN’S ASSISTANTS Nurse Coordinator: A Patient Care Coordinator (Nurse) helps new patients arrange and prepare for their initial visit to UAB. They will help gather medical records, schedule tests, answer questions about your visit, and connect you with
services that are available to help you with your journey.
Nurse Practitioner: A Nurse Practitioner has an advanced nursing degree and is licensed to do many of the things that a physician can do. Our Nurse Practitioners are specialized in cancer care and will work with your doctors to diagnose and
treat illness, perform physical exams, offer preventive care, prescribe medication, and educate you about your illness and
treatment.
ABOUT YOUR CARE TEAM