How to Find a Radiation Oncologist
Radiation oncologists treat cancer patients with electromagnetic energy. Two types of radiation treatment for cancer exist. In one, a doctor shoots an external beam of radiation at the cancer. In another, a surgeon implants radioactive material near the tumor.
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Primary Care Physician
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A good place to start your search for a radiation oncologist is with your primary care physician. Good doctors know other good doctors. Ask your primary physician if he or she knows any good radiation oncologists in the area.
Insurance Company
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You might want to make sure your insurance covers the services provided by the radiation oncologist you choose. Using an in-network doctor can significantly decrease costs. Your insurance company can provide you with a list of approved doctors.
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American Society of Clinical Oncology
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The American Society of Clinical Oncology keeps an online database of its members. Through the database, you can see where each radiation oncologist practices and if he or she has a subspecialty.
Research
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Research the backgrounds of potential radiation oncologists, and book preliminary visits to meet them and ask questions. Find out where they received their education and ask them how many years they have practiced. Through an initial meeting you can decide whether you like a given radiation oncologist's bedside manner.
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References
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