The following health professionals may be involved in the care of a woman with breast cancer:
- general practitioner: provides ongoing care and works with other members of the treatment team
- surgeon: specialises in surgery, including biopsies
- pathologist: examines cells, tissue and blood from the body
- radiologist: examines mammograms, ultrasounds, X-rays and other imaging results and may perform biopsies or help locate cancers prior to surgery
- radiation oncologist: specialises in radiotherapy
- radiation therapist: assists in planning and giving radiotherapy
- medical oncologist: specialises in cancer drugs such as hormonal therapies, chemotherapy and targeted therapies
- breast care nurse: specialises in caring for people with breast cancer
- oncology nurse: specialises in caring for people with cancer
- research nurse: assists in the planning and coordination of clinical research studies and clinical trials
- psychologist, psychiatrist or counsellor: specialise in providing emotional support and managing anxiety and depression
- social worker: specialises in providing emotional support, counselling and advice about some practical and legal matters
- welfare worker: provides practical support and advice
- physiotherapist, occupational therapist: assist with exercise and pain management
- dietitian: specialises in providing advice about what to eat
- palliative care specialist, palliative care nurse: specialise in providing practical support and symptom relief
- community/district nurse: provides care and support at home
- community palliative care team: provide practical support and symptom relief at home
- plastic surgeon: specialises in breast reconstruction after breast surgery
- pharmacist: specialises in supplying, dispensing and manufacturing drugs
- pastoral care/religious representative: provides spiritual support.
updated: 20 October 2020 - 3:32pm