Oncology Job Description
Oncology is the medical study of tumors and cancer. Oncology professionals work with patients in diagnosis, therapy, prevention, screening, palliative care and continuing care after successful oncology treatment. Careers in oncology can include a variety of options and education.
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Education
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Basic educational requirements include a bachelor's degree in a medical or diagnostic discipline, with focused studies in oncology. These professionals include nurses, radiologists, researchers and social workers.
Other medical professionals are required to have a doctoral degree or medical degree. Professionals such as pharmacists, oncologists, doctors and anesthesiologists work with oncology patients in a variety of ways.
Many professionals will pursue specialty interests in oncology such as hematology, gynecological, pediatric, radiation, neural and surgical areas, which can include focused educational and certification studies.
All practicing medical professionals are required to receive a license in their field, involving state-administered exams and clinical requirements.
Function
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All oncology professionals focus on the diagnoses, treatment or prevention of cancer. This can include research, diagnostic testing and treatment, surgical procedures and support for oncology patients. Because many cancers can be fatal, it's important to diagnose and treat patients as quickly as possible and provide the best possible solution for treatment or palliative care to offer comfort or life-saving options.
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Oncology Staging
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Oncology staging consists of classification to determine appropriate treatment and helps determine the prognosis of cancer patients. Oncology staging involves a basic understanding of prognosis and is categorized by a numerical system of stage 0 through stage 4: Stage 0 involving the least extent of the disease, and stage 4 involves extensive spread of the disease.
Some oncology professionals may specialize in specific stages of the disease, and have a solid understanding of treatment options and success rates of treatment in those stages. This allows an oncology professional to offer extensive insight to patients, allowing them to make a decision regarding treatment based on facts, risks and success rates.
Significance
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Advances in medical studies and discovery of advanced oncology treatment continues to allow cancer patients favorable chances of survival and prevention. Oncology jobs offer a rewarding career and the ability to contribute to advanced knowledge and cures. Almost all oncology professionals assist in research and development efforts providing insight to assist in successful treatment, and are involved with industry associations and efforts.
Salaries
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For most oncology professionals with a bachelor's degree, starting salaries can range from $40,000 per year to $70,000 per year. Salaries for professionals with a doctoral degree can start at $137,000 per year and are as high as $259,000 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2009. Salaries can range extensively depending on education and specialty area.
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