Top 25 Medical Oncologists Across the US
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What is an Oncologist?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
An oncologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer. Medical oncologists focus on treating cancer with medications including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy. They coordinate comprehensive cancer care, work closely with surgical and radiation oncologists, monitor treatment response, manage side effects, and provide ongoing surveillance after treatment. Oncologists also subspecialize in specific cancer types (breast, lung, gastrointestinal, etc.) or patient populations (pediatric oncology, geriatric oncology).
Training and Qualifications
Becoming an oncologist requires extensive education and training:
- 4 years of medical school to earn an MD or DO degree
- 3 years of internal medicine residency
- 3 years of medical oncology fellowship (often combined with hematology)
- Many complete additional 1-2 year subspecialty fellowships in specific cancer types
- Total of 14+ years of training beyond a bachelor's degree
- Board certification through the American Board of Internal Medicine in Medical Oncology
Board Certification: American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) in Medical Oncology. Requires completion of accredited internal medicine residency and oncology fellowship, plus passing comprehensive examinations. Many oncologists also have board certification in Hematology. Subspecialty certifications available in hospice and palliative medicine. Recertification required every 10 years through continuing medical education and examination.
When Should You See an Oncologist?
You should consider seeing an oncologist if:
- You've been diagnosed with cancer and need treatment planning
- You need chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted cancer therapy
- You're experiencing unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, or night sweats
- You have abnormal blood work suggesting possible cancer or blood disorder
- You need a second opinion about cancer diagnosis or treatment options
- You're in cancer remission and need ongoing surveillance
- Your primary care doctor or surgeon recommends oncology evaluation
- You have a family history of cancer and want risk assessment
- You're experiencing side effects from cancer treatment
- You need palliative care for advanced cancer
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
Oncologists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that oncologists help patients manage.
Breast Cancer
The most common cancer in women, originating in breast tissue. Can also occur in men, though rarely. Includes multiple subtypes based on hormone receptors and HER2 status.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oncologists determine breast cancer subtype through biomarker testing, develop personalized treatment plans based on stage and biology, prescribe chemotherapy regimens (AC-T, TC, dose-dense protocols), recommend targeted therapies (trastuzumab for HER2+, CDK4/6 inhibitors), provide hormone therapy (tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors), coordinate with surgeons and radiation oncologists, and monitor for recurrence.
Lung Cancer
Cancer originating in the lungs, divided into non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC, 85% of cases) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC, 15%). Leading cause of cancer death.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oncologists perform molecular testing to identify targetable mutations (EGFR, ALK, ROS1, KRAS G12C), prescribe targeted therapies for mutation-positive cancers, recommend immunotherapy (pembrolizumab, nivolumab, atezolizumab), administer chemotherapy for advanced disease, manage treatment side effects, coordinate with thoracic surgeons and radiation oncologists, and provide ongoing monitoring.
Colorectal Cancer
Cancer of the colon or rectum, often developing from precancerous polyps. Third most common cancer in both men and women.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oncologists determine microsatellite instability (MSI) and RAS/RAF mutation status, design chemotherapy regimens (FOLFOX, FOLFIRI, CAPOX), prescribe targeted biologics (bevacizumab, cetuximab, panitumumab), recommend immunotherapy for MSI-high tumors, coordinate adjuvant treatment after surgery, manage metastatic disease, and provide long-term surveillance colonoscopy.
Prostate Cancer
Most common cancer in men (excluding skin cancer). Usually slow-growing, but some types are aggressive. Often detected through PSA screening.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oncologists evaluate Gleason score and staging, recommend active surveillance for low-risk disease, prescribe androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) with LHRH agonists or antagonists, provide newer antiandrogens (enzalutamide, apalutamide, darolutamide), coordinate with urologic oncologists, manage treatment side effects (hot flashes, osteoporosis), and monitor PSA levels.
Lymphoma (Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin)
Cancer of the lymphatic system, including lymph nodes, spleen, and bone marrow. Hodgkin lymphoma has characteristic Reed-Sternberg cells; non-Hodgkin includes many subtypes.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Hematologist-oncologists perform lymph node biopsy and immunophenotyping to determine subtype, stage disease with PET-CT scans, administer chemotherapy regimens (ABVD for Hodgkin, R-CHOP for DLBCL), provide immunotherapy (rituximab, brentuximab vedotin), consider stem cell transplant for relapsed disease, and monitor with surveillance imaging.
Leukemia
Cancer of blood-forming tissues, including bone marrow. Four main types: acute lymphoblastic (ALL), acute myeloid (AML), chronic lymphocytic (CLL), and chronic myeloid (CML).
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Hematologist-oncologists perform bone marrow biopsy and genetic testing, design intensive induction chemotherapy for acute leukemias, prescribe targeted therapies (imatinib for CML, venetoclax for CLL), recommend stem cell transplantation when appropriate, manage cytopenias and infections, provide supportive care including transfusions, and monitor minimal residual disease.
Pancreatic Cancer
Aggressive cancer often diagnosed at advanced stage due to lack of early symptoms. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is most common type.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oncologists evaluate resectability with surgical oncologists, provide neoadjuvant chemotherapy to downstage borderline resectable tumors, administer adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery (FOLFIRINOX, gemcitabine-based regimens), manage metastatic disease with combination chemotherapy, coordinate biliary stenting for jaundice, provide pain management, and offer palliative care consultation when appropriate.
Melanoma
Most dangerous type of skin cancer, originating in melanocytes (pigment-producing cells). Can spread rapidly if not detected early.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oncologists stage melanoma based on Breslow thickness and sentinel lymph node biopsy, provide adjuvant immunotherapy for high-risk resected melanoma (pembrolizumab, nivolumab), prescribe targeted therapy for BRAF-mutated melanoma (dabrafenib + trametinib, vemurafenib + cobimetinib), treat metastatic disease with checkpoint inhibitors, coordinate with surgical and radiation oncologists, and monitor for recurrence with imaging and skin exams.
Ovarian Cancer
Cancer originating in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or peritoneum. Often diagnosed at advanced stage because early symptoms are vague.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Gynecologic oncologists and medical oncologists coordinate surgical debulking, provide platinum-based chemotherapy (carboplatin + paclitaxel), recommend PARP inhibitors for BRCA-mutated or HRD-positive cancers (olaparib, niraparib, rucaparib), prescribe bevacizumab as maintenance therapy, monitor CA-125 tumor markers, manage ascites, and evaluate germline genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes.
Multiple Myeloma
Cancer of plasma cells in bone marrow, causing bone damage, kidney problems, and abnormal antibody production. Blood cancer affecting older adults.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Hematologist-oncologists diagnose using CRAB criteria (calcium elevation, renal failure, anemia, bone lesions), provide induction therapy with proteasome inhibitors (bortezomib, carfilzomib), immunomodulatory drugs (lenalidomide, pomalidomide), and dexamethasone, perform autologous stem cell transplant in eligible patients, prescribe maintenance therapy, administer bisphosphonates for bone health, and monitor with serum protein electrophoresis and free light chains.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Oncologists treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified oncologist for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting an oncologist.
Your First Visit
- Comprehensive review of cancer diagnosis including pathology reports, biopsy results, and staging information
- Discussion of treatment goals: curative intent vs. palliative care vs. life prolongation
- Review of all imaging studies (CT, MRI, PET scans) and laboratory results
- Detailed medical history including previous treatments, medications, allergies, and comorbidities
- Physical examination focused on cancer-related findings and performance status
- Discussion of treatment options: chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, clinical trials
- Explanation of potential benefits, risks, and side effects of recommended treatments
- Coordination with surgical and radiation oncologists for multidisciplinary care planning
- Introduction to oncology team including nurses, social workers, nutritionists, and patient navigators
- Initial consultations typically last 60-90 minutes to thoroughly discuss diagnosis and treatment plan
Diagnosis & Testing
- Tumor biopsy and pathology analysis to confirm cancer type and grade
- Immunohistochemistry testing to identify cancer markers and guide treatment selection
- Molecular/genetic tumor profiling to find targetable mutations (EGFR, ALK, BRAF, HER2, BRCA, etc.)
- PET-CT scan for accurate staging and detection of metastatic disease
- CT or MRI scans of affected areas to assess tumor size and spread
- Blood tests including complete blood count, metabolic panel, liver and kidney function
- Tumor marker blood tests (CEA, CA 19-9, CA 125, PSA, AFP) for monitoring
- Bone marrow biopsy for blood cancers (leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma)
- Endoscopy, colonoscopy, or bronchoscopy for direct visualization and biopsy of tumors
- Multidisciplinary tumor board review of complex cases
Treatment Options
- Chemotherapy administration via IV infusion, oral pills, or injections based on cancer type
- Immunotherapy (checkpoint inhibitors) to enhance immune system's ability to fight cancer
- Targeted therapy medications that attack specific genetic mutations in cancer cells
- Hormone therapy for hormone-sensitive cancers (breast, prostate)
- Supportive medications for nausea, pain, fatigue, and treatment side effects
- Pre-medications before chemotherapy (anti-nausea drugs, steroids, antihistamines)
- Growth factor injections to support white blood cell production during treatment
- Regular monitoring with blood tests, imaging, and physical exams
- Adjustment of treatment based on response and tolerance
- Coordination with radiation oncology, surgery, and palliative care as needed
- Patient education about side effect management and when to seek urgent care
- Enrollment in clinical trials when appropriate for access to novel therapies
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your oncologist provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Oncologist
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting an oncologist.
Credentials to Verify
- Board certification by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Medical Oncology
- Completed 3 years of medical oncology fellowship after internal medicine residency
- Subspecialty expertise if seeking specialized cancer care (breast oncologist, thoracic oncologist, GI oncologist, etc.)
- Active state medical license without disciplinary actions
- Hospital affiliations with accredited cancer centers
- Participation in tumor boards and multidisciplinary cancer teams
- Membership in American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) or other professional organizations
- Continuing education and knowledge of latest cancer treatments and clinical trials
Important Considerations
- Subspecialty focus matching your cancer type (breast, lung, GI, hematology, etc.)
- Experience treating your specific cancer stage and molecular subtype
- Affiliation with comprehensive cancer center vs. community oncology practice
- Access to clinical trials and investigational therapies for your cancer type
- Multidisciplinary team approach with surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists
- Availability of advanced treatments (immunotherapy, targeted therapy, precision medicine)
- Accepts your insurance and is in-network (critical for expensive cancer treatment)
- Office location and infusion center proximity for frequent treatments
- Communication style and compassion - you'll be working closely with your oncologist
- Willingness to discuss prognosis honestly and involve you in treatment decisions
- Availability and responsiveness between appointments for urgent concerns
- Second opinion availability - many patients seek second opinions before starting treatment
- Supportive services: oncology nurses, social workers, nutritionists, patient navigators, financial counselors
- Patient reviews and satisfaction ratings from other cancer patients
- Research and academic involvement if interested in cutting-edge treatments
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple oncologists before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing an oncologist can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$300-$800
Follow-up Visit
$150-$400
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Cancer treatment is extremely expensive - insurance coverage is essential
- Most health insurance covers oncology care, but verify your specific cancer center is in-network
- Specialist copays typically $50-$150 per visit
- Chemotherapy and immunotherapy usually covered but may require pre-authorization
- Many patients reach their out-of-pocket maximum early in treatment (typically $5,000-$9,000 for individuals)
- Oral chemotherapy may have higher copays than IV chemotherapy depending on plan - advocate for equivalent coverage
- Clinical trial investigational drugs are free, but routine care costs (scans, labs, visits) still apply
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs and copay cards available for expensive medications (often reduce copays to $0-$25)
- Financial navigators and social workers at cancer centers help with insurance appeals and assistance programs
- Non-profit organizations offer grants for cancer patients (CancerCare, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Patient Advocate Foundation)
Medicare Information
Medicare Part B covers oncologist visits, infused chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and supportive medications at 80% after deductible (beneficiary pays 20% coinsurance). Part D covers oral chemotherapy medications. Medicare Advantage plans may have different cost-sharing. Most oncologists accept Medicare assignment. Medigap plans can help cover the 20% coinsurance.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your oncologist is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your Oncologist
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking an oncologist.
What type and stage of cancer do I have, and what does that mean for my prognosis?
What treatment options are available for my specific cancer, and which do you recommend?
Are there any clinical trials I should consider for my cancer type and stage?
What are the potential side effects of treatment, and how will we manage them?
How will we know if the treatment is working, and how often will I need scans?
Should I get molecular or genetic testing on my tumor to identify targeted therapy options?
Would you recommend I get a second opinion, and can you suggest where?
What support services are available (nutrition, social work, financial counseling)?
What symptoms should prompt me to call your office or go to the emergency room?
What is your experience treating my specific type of cancer?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Know when symptoms require immediate attention versus a scheduled appointment.
While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with an oncologist, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
- Fever over 100.4°F during chemotherapy - neutropenic fever is a medical emergency
- Signs of severe infection: shaking chills, rapid heart rate, confusion, or feeling very ill during treatment
- Uncontrolled bleeding or unusual bruising from low platelet counts
- Severe shortness of breath which may indicate pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, or lung inflammation
- Sudden severe pain, especially bone pain or abdominal pain that may indicate fracture or bowel obstruction
- Signs of blood clot: leg swelling, redness, warmth (DVT) or sudden chest pain with shortness of breath (PE)
- Severe dehydration from nausea and vomiting - inability to keep down fluids for 24+ hours
- Confusion or altered mental status which may indicate brain metastases or high calcium levels
EMERGENCY
Call 911 or nearest ER
URGENT
Doctor or urgent care
NON-URGENT
Regular appointment
Oncologist vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
Oncologist vs. Surgical Oncologist
Medical oncologists treat cancer with medications (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy), while surgical oncologists specialize in operations to remove tumors. Many cancer patients need both - surgery to remove the tumor, followed by medical oncology treatment to prevent recurrence.
Oncologist vs. Radiation Oncologist
Medical oncologists use systemic medications that travel throughout the body, while radiation oncologists use targeted radiation beams to kill cancer cells in specific areas. Many patients receive both modalities as part of comprehensive cancer care.
Oncologist vs. Hematologist
Medical oncologists primarily treat solid tumors (breast, lung, colon), while hematologists specialize in blood cancers (leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma). Many physicians are trained as hematologist-oncologists and treat both blood cancers and solid tumors.
Oncologist vs. Primary Care Physician
Primary care physicians provide cancer screening and initial evaluation, then refer to oncologists when cancer is suspected. Oncologists specialize exclusively in cancer diagnosis and treatment with extensive training in chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials.
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about oncologists is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about medical oncologists
What's the difference between medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists?
Medical oncologists treat cancer primarily with medications (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy). Surgical oncologists perform operations to remove tumors and surrounding tissue. Radiation oncologists use radiation therapy to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. Most cancer patients work with a multidisciplinary team that may include all three types of oncologists, plus other specialists. Medical oncologists often serve as the primary coordinator of cancer care and manage treatment before and after surgery or radiation.
What should I bring to my first oncology appointment?
Bring all pathology reports from your biopsy, imaging reports and CDs/DVDs of scans (CT, MRI, PET), operative reports if you've had surgery, list of all current medications and supplements, family history of cancer, your insurance card and ID, a notebook to take notes, and a family member or friend for support and to help remember information. Having complete medical records helps your oncologist make the most informed treatment recommendations.
Do I need a second opinion before starting cancer treatment?
Getting a second opinion is often recommended and most oncologists encourage it, especially for complex cancers or when multiple treatment options exist. Many insurance plans cover second opinions. Bring all your medical records, pathology slides (not just reports), and imaging to the second opinion appointment. For some cancers like early-stage breast cancer or low-risk prostate cancer, treatment decisions can wait a few weeks for a second opinion without affecting outcomes. Your oncologist can help determine if time is critical for your specific situation.
How long does chemotherapy treatment take?
Chemotherapy duration varies widely depending on cancer type, stage, and treatment goals. Adjuvant chemotherapy (after surgery) for breast or colon cancer typically lasts 3-6 months. Treatment for advanced cancer may continue indefinitely as long as it's working and tolerated. Individual infusion sessions can last 30 minutes to 6+ hours depending on the drugs used. Most chemotherapy is given in cycles (like every 2 or 3 weeks) with rest periods between treatments. Your oncologist will explain the specific schedule for your treatment plan.
What are the side effects of cancer treatment?
Side effects vary greatly depending on the specific treatment. Common chemotherapy side effects include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, increased infection risk, and neuropathy (nerve damage causing tingling). Immunotherapy can cause immune-related side effects affecting various organs. Targeted therapies have different side effects like rash, diarrhea, or high blood pressure. Not everyone experiences all side effects, and modern supportive medications can prevent or reduce many of them. Your oncology team will monitor for side effects and provide medications to manage them. Always report new symptoms to your team.
Is immunotherapy an option for all cancers?
Immunotherapy works well for some cancers but not all. It's most effective for melanoma, lung cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, head and neck cancers, and tumors with high microsatellite instability (MSI-high) or mismatch repair deficiency. Your oncologist will test your tumor for biomarkers that predict immunotherapy response, such as PD-L1 expression, tumor mutational burden (TMB), or MSI status. For some cancers, immunotherapy is now first-line treatment; for others, it's reserved for later lines or isn't effective. Ongoing research continues to expand immunotherapy's role.
What is targeted therapy and how is it different from chemotherapy?
Targeted therapy attacks specific genetic mutations or proteins in cancer cells, while traditional chemotherapy kills all rapidly dividing cells (both cancer and normal cells). Targeted therapies are designed to be more precise and often have different side effects than chemotherapy. Examples include HER2 inhibitors for HER2-positive breast cancer, EGFR inhibitors for EGFR-mutated lung cancer, and BRAF inhibitors for BRAF-mutated melanoma. Your tumor must have the specific target (identified through molecular testing) for targeted therapy to work. Some patients receive targeted therapy alone; others receive it combined with chemotherapy or immunotherapy.
How often will I need to see my oncologist during treatment?
Visit frequency depends on your treatment intensity and how you're tolerating it. During active chemotherapy, you'll typically see your oncologist every 2-4 weeks (often on each treatment day) for exam, blood work, and treatment. Between chemotherapy cycles, you may have weekly blood work checks. After completing treatment, surveillance visits start frequently (every 3-4 months) and gradually space out to every 6 months, then annually after several years in remission. If you experience side effects or complications, you may need more frequent visits or urgent appointments.
What does it mean if cancer is stage 4 or metastatic?
Stage 4 or metastatic cancer means cancer has spread from its original site to distant organs. For most solid tumors, this is considered advanced cancer and typically isn't curable with current treatments, though there are exceptions (some testicular cancers, lymphomas). However, many stage 4 cancers can be controlled for months to years with systemic therapy (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy). Treatment goals shift to controlling cancer growth, managing symptoms, maintaining quality of life, and prolonging survival. Some patients with metastatic cancer live for many years with good quality of life through sequential treatments.
Should I participate in a clinical trial?
Clinical trials offer access to promising new treatments not yet widely available and contribute to advancing cancer care. Consider trials when: standard treatments aren't working, you have a rare cancer with limited options, you want access to the newest therapies, or your oncologist recommends one based on your cancer's characteristics. All clinical trials have strict protocols, informed consent, and oversight. Discuss potential benefits and risks with your oncologist. Organizations like the National Cancer Institute (cancer.gov) and ClinicalTrials.gov provide searchable databases of open trials.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Our editorial standards