A Radiation oncologist is a cancer doctor who specializes in the use of radiation therapy to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells. Radiation oncologists may order tests and images, prescribe medications, and consult with other doctors involved with cancer treatment.
At OHC, our radiation oncology team offers external radiation and internal radiation. In external radiation treatments, a beam of radiation is administered to a precise part of the body, using a machine called a linear accelerator. For internal radiation treatments, a radiation source is placed inside the body.
Types of Radiation Therapy Offered Through OHC’s Comprehensive Program
You and your OHC radiation doctor will determine which type of treatment is best for your diagnosis. This may include:
- 3-D conformal – Three-dimensional treatment
- Cesium-131 Brachytherapy
- CyberKnife Robotic Radiosurgery System
- Gamma Knife Radiosurgery (Administered exclusively through OHC)
- HDR Brachytherapy – Internal Radiation
- IGRT – Image Guided Radiation Therapy
- IMRT – Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy
- SBRT – Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy
- SRS – Stereotactic Radiosurgery
- TheraSphere
- Xofigo
Your OHC doctor and staff will guide you through each step of the radiation treatment process, from initial consultation to follow-up care. These steps include:
- Consultation – Your radiation oncologist will meet with you to discuss your individual care plan.
- Simulation – OHC staff will perform a CT scan and administer markings on your body to map out your treatment area.
- Treatment Planning – Your radiation oncologist will then determine the exact area of your body to be treated and the amount of radiation necessary.
- Radiation Treatment – Your radiation therapy will be administered over a course of two-to-eight weeks, depending on your treatment plan.
- Follow-up care – Your OHC doctor will provide details about how to care for the areas treated with radiation and any possible side effects. They will be available after your treatments have finished for you to contact if you have any questions or concerns. As with all members of OHC, your radiation oncologist is with you from diagnosis through survivorship, and everything in between.
Your OHC Healthcare Team
Each member of your OHC care team plays an important role in your care and is available to address any questions or concerns you may have about your treatment. Members of your team include:
- Radiation Oncologist- Doctor who specializes in the field of therapeutic radiation
- Advanced Practice Providers – Medical providers with a Master’s Degree or higher who can diagnose and treat patients
- Medical Oncologist – Doctor who specializes in the field of cancer and blood disorders
- Gynecologic Oncologist – Doctor who specializes in cancers of the female reproductive organs
- Radiation Therapists – Nationally-registered, state-licensed professional training in delivering radiation treatments as prescribed by your doctor. They arrange all of your appointments and monitor you throughout the course of treatment.
- Nurse Navigators – Registered nurses who work directly with you and other members of your care team to navigate you through diagnosis, treatment and survivorship
- Research Nurse – Specially-trained registered nurses who work directly with a patient’s doctor to coordinate care and treatment if you are participating in a clinical trial
- Medical Assistants – Medical personnel who meet with you at the beginning of each visit and welcome and guide patients through each visit to schedule diagnostic tests, assist with procedures and draw blood samples
- Financial Navigators – Financial experts who help you with financial questions and concerns, including billing, financial assistance, or payment plans
- OHC Pharmacists – Knowledgeable pharmacists who specialize in cancer-related medications and treatments. They work directly with your OHC doctors, advanced practice providers, nurse and other members of your care team
OHC is accredited in radiation oncology by the American College of Radiology. This accreditation represents the highest level of quality and patient safety.
To schedule an appointment or for more information, please call 1-800-710-4674 or click Request An Appointment.