Healthcare Providers Involved in Brain Cancer Treatment
There are usually several healthcare providers involved in a person's
brain cancer treatment. The doctor may refer patients to doctors who specialize in treating brain cancer, or patients may ask for a referral. Specialists who treat brain cancer include:
- Neurosurgeons
- Neurooncologists
- Medical oncologists
- Radiation oncologists.
The patient may be referred to other healthcare professionals who work together as a team. The medical team may include:
- Nurse
- Dietitian
- Mental health counselor
- Social worker
- Physical therapist
- Occupational therapist
- Speech therapist.
Children with brain cancer may also need tutors to help with schoolwork.
Brain Cancer Treatment: Getting a Second Opinion
Sometimes, it is helpful to have a second opinion about the brain cancer diagnosis and the brain cancer treatment plan. While some insurance companies require a second opinion, others may cover a second opinion if the patient or doctor requests it.
Brain Cancer Treatment Options
The doctor is the best person to describe the choices regarding brain cancer treatment and to discuss the expected results. The doctor and patient should work together to develop a brain cancer treatment plan that fits the patient's needs.
Depending on the type and extent of brain cancer, patients may have:
In addition, patients may have brain cancer treatment:
- To control pain and other symptoms of the cancer
- To relieve the side effects of therapy
- To ease emotional problems.
This kind of treatment is called symptom management, supportive care, or palliative care.
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