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What is a Radiation Oncologist?

A radiation oncologist is a physician who specializes in treating cancer using radiation therapy. These medical experts use high-energy radiation beams, radioactive sources, and advanced technologies to target and destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Radiation oncologists work as part of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, collaborating with medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, and other specialists to develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific cancer type, stage, and overall health.

Training and Qualifications

Becoming a radiation oncologist requires extensive education and training:

  • 4 years of medical school to earn an MD or DO degree
  • 1 year of internship in internal medicine, surgery, or transitional year
  • 4 years of radiation oncology residency with training in treatment planning, physics, and clinical oncology
  • Total of 13+ years of education and training beyond high school
  • Optional 1-2 year fellowships in subspecialties like pediatric radiation oncology, brachytherapy, or stereotactic radiosurgery

Board Certification: American Board of Radiology (ABR) with subspecialty certification in Radiation Oncology. Certification requires passing written and oral examinations after completing an accredited residency. Maintenance of certification includes ongoing professional development and practice quality improvement.

When Should You See a Radiation Oncologist?

You should consider seeing a radiation oncologist if:

  • You have been diagnosed with cancer that may benefit from radiation therapy
  • Your oncology team recommends radiation as part of your treatment plan
  • You need treatment for a tumor that cannot be surgically removed
  • You require palliative radiation to relieve cancer-related pain or symptoms
  • You are considering proton therapy or specialized radiation techniques
  • You need post-surgical radiation to reduce cancer recurrence risk
  • You have a recurrent cancer that may respond to radiation therapy

Key Facts

Radiation oncologists are physician specialists with 13+ years of training
Approximately 50% of all cancer patients receive radiation therapy during treatment
Modern radiation techniques can precisely target tumors while sparing healthy tissue
Radiation oncologists treat both curative and palliative cases
They work closely with medical physicists to ensure treatment accuracy and safety

Common Conditions Treated

by Radiation Oncologists

Radiation Oncologists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that radiation oncologists help patients manage:

1

Breast Cancer

Radiation therapy is commonly used after lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) or mastectomy to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce recurrence risk.

Key Symptoms

Post-surgical treatment need
Locally advanced breast cancer
Inflammatory breast cancer
Chest wall involvement

Treatment Approach

Radiation oncologists deliver precisely targeted radiation to the breast, chest wall, or lymph node regions using techniques like IMRT or partial breast irradiation to reduce recurrence rates while minimizing heart and lung exposure.

Expert care from a certified radiation oncologist
2

Prostate Cancer

Radiation therapy is a primary treatment option for localized prostate cancer, offering cure rates comparable to surgery with different side effect profiles.

Key Symptoms

Localized prostate cancer
Biochemical recurrence after surgery
Locally advanced disease
High-risk prostate cancer

Treatment Approach

Radiation oncologists use external beam radiation (IMRT/VMAT) or brachytherapy (radioactive seed implants) to treat prostate cancer, often combined with hormone therapy for intermediate and high-risk cases.

Expert care from a certified radiation oncologist
3

Lung Cancer

Radiation therapy treats both non-small cell and small cell lung cancer, either as a primary treatment or in combination with surgery and chemotherapy.

Key Symptoms

Early-stage inoperable lung cancer
Locally advanced lung cancer
Limited-stage small cell lung cancer
Brain metastases from lung cancer

Treatment Approach

Radiation oncologists employ stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for early-stage tumors or conventional radiation with concurrent chemotherapy for advanced cases, using image guidance for precise tumor targeting.

Expert care from a certified radiation oncologist
4

Brain Tumors

Radiation therapy treats primary brain tumors and brain metastases using highly precise techniques to protect critical neurological structures.

Key Symptoms

Primary brain tumors (gliomas, meningiomas)
Brain metastases from other cancers
Residual tumor after surgery
Benign brain tumors causing symptoms

Treatment Approach

Radiation oncologists use stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for small tumors or whole brain radiation for multiple metastases, with advanced planning to preserve cognitive function and quality of life.

Expert care from a certified radiation oncologist
5

Head and Neck Cancer

Radiation therapy is a cornerstone of treatment for cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx, and other head and neck structures, often preserving organ function.

Key Symptoms

Squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck
Thyroid cancer requiring adjuvant treatment
Nasopharyngeal cancer
Laryngeal cancer for voice preservation

Treatment Approach

Radiation oncologists use IMRT to precisely shape radiation beams around complex anatomy, sparing salivary glands and swallowing muscles while effectively treating the tumor and at-risk lymph nodes.

Expert care from a certified radiation oncologist
6

Colorectal Cancer

Radiation therapy is commonly used for rectal cancer before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumors and reduce recurrence risk.

Key Symptoms

Locally advanced rectal cancer
Rectal cancer at risk for local recurrence
Unresectable pelvic disease
Recurrent rectal cancer

Treatment Approach

Radiation oncologists deliver precise pelvic radiation, often combined with chemotherapy, to shrink tumors before surgery, enabling sphincter-preserving procedures and reducing local recurrence.

Expert care from a certified radiation oncologist
7

Bone Metastases

Palliative radiation therapy effectively relieves pain and prevents complications from cancer that has spread to bones.

Key Symptoms

Cancer-related bone pain
Risk of pathologic fracture
Spinal cord compression
Bone metastases from any primary cancer

Treatment Approach

Radiation oncologists provide rapid pain relief (often within 1-2 weeks) through targeted radiation to bone metastases, preventing fractures and improving quality of life with minimal treatment sessions.

Expert care from a certified radiation oncologist
8

Gynecologic Cancers

Radiation therapy treats cancers of the cervix, uterus, vagina, and vulva, often using a combination of external beam radiation and brachytherapy.

Key Symptoms

Cervical cancer (all stages)
Endometrial cancer with high-risk features
Vaginal or vulvar cancer
Post-surgical treatment needs

Treatment Approach

Radiation oncologists combine external beam radiation with intracavitary or interstitial brachytherapy to deliver high doses directly to gynecologic tumors while protecting bladder and bowel.

Expert care from a certified radiation oncologist

Important Note

This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Radiation Oncologists treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified radiation 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 a radiation oncologist.

1

Your First Visit

  • Comprehensive review of your cancer diagnosis, staging, and pathology reports
  • Discussion of your complete medical history and current medications
  • Physical examination focused on the cancer site and overall health
  • Review of imaging studies (CT, MRI, PET scans) with you
  • Detailed explanation of radiation therapy options, benefits, and potential side effects
  • Discussion of treatment goals: curative intent vs. palliative symptom relief
  • Initial consultation typically lasts 45-60 minutes
2

Diagnosis & Testing

  • CT simulation: special CT scan in treatment position to create your custom treatment plan
  • Creation of immobilization devices (masks, molds) to ensure precise daily positioning
  • Fusion of diagnostic imaging (MRI, PET) with planning CT for accurate tumor delineation
  • Collaboration with medical physicists to design optimal radiation dose distribution
  • Target volume definition and critical organ dose constraints
  • Quality assurance review of treatment plan before first treatment
3

Treatment Options

  • Daily radiation treatments typically lasting 10-20 minutes each session
  • Treatment courses range from 1 session (radiosurgery) to 8 weeks depending on the plan
  • Weekly appointments with your radiation oncologist to monitor progress and side effects
  • Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) to verify positioning before each treatment
  • Management of side effects with medications and supportive care as needed
  • Completion imaging and follow-up appointments to assess treatment response
  • Long-term surveillance to monitor for cancer control and late effects

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 radiation oncologist provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

How to Choose the Right Radiation Oncologist

Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a radiation oncologist.

Credentials to Verify

  • Board certification by the American Board of Radiology in Radiation Oncology
  • Completion of an ACGME-accredited 4-year radiation oncology residency
  • Active, unrestricted medical license in your state
  • Fellowship training if specialized expertise is needed (pediatric, brachytherapy, proton therapy)
  • Privileges at an accredited cancer treatment center
  • Membership in American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO)

Important Considerations

  • Experience treating your specific cancer type and stage
  • Availability of advanced treatment technologies (IMRT, SBRT, proton therapy)
  • Multidisciplinary tumor board participation for coordinated care
  • Treatment center accreditation and quality metrics
  • Access to clinical trials for your cancer type
  • Support services including nurse navigators and social workers
  • Communication style and willingness to discuss treatment options thoroughly

Quick Tip

Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple radiation 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 a radiation oncologist can help you plan for your healthcare needs.

Average Costs (Without Insurance)

Initial Visit

$200-$400 (initial consultation)

Follow-up Visit

$100-$250

Common Procedures

CT simulation and treatment planning$1,500-$3,000
External beam radiation (full course)$10,000-$50,000
IMRT/VMAT treatment course$15,000-$60,000
Stereotactic radiosurgery (single session)$8,000-$25,000
Stereotactic body radiation (SBRT, 3-5 sessions)$15,000-$40,000
Proton therapy course$30,000-$120,000
Brachytherapy procedure$5,000-$20,000

Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.

Insurance Coverage

  • Most health insurance plans cover radiation therapy for cancer treatment
  • Prior authorization is typically required before starting treatment
  • In-network providers have negotiated rates that reduce out-of-pocket costs
  • Proton therapy coverage varies by insurance plan and cancer type
  • Treatment costs include physician fees, facility fees, and technical charges
  • Many cancer centers have financial counselors to help navigate coverage

Medicare Information

Medicare Part B covers radiation therapy services at 80% of the approved amount after the annual deductible is met. This includes physician services, treatment planning, and radiation delivery. Beneficiaries are responsible for the 20% coinsurance, though supplemental insurance may cover this. Medicare covers most standard radiation techniques and is increasingly covering proton therapy for specific indications.

Money-Saving Tips

  • 1Always verify your radiation 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 Radiation 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 a radiation oncologist:

1

What is the goal of radiation therapy in my case - cure or symptom control?

2

What type of radiation technique do you recommend and why?

3

How many treatments will I need and what is the daily time commitment?

4

What side effects should I expect and how will they be managed?

5

Will I need chemotherapy or other treatments along with radiation?

6

Are there clinical trials available for my type of cancer?

7

What is your experience treating my specific type of cancer?

8

How will we know if the treatment is working?

9

What are the long-term effects I should know about?

10

When can I return to normal activities during and after treatment?

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

While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with a radiation oncologist, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:

  • Severe difficulty breathing or worsening shortness of breath during or after radiation - may indicate radiation pneumonitis
  • Sudden severe headache, confusion, or seizures during brain radiation - may indicate increased intracranial pressure
  • High fever (over 101.3F) with chills during treatment - may indicate infection requiring immediate evaluation
  • Severe difficulty swallowing or inability to drink fluids during head/neck radiation - may indicate severe mucositis requiring IV fluids
  • Sudden weakness or numbness in legs with loss of bladder/bowel control - may indicate spinal cord compression requiring emergency treatment
  • Severe abdominal pain or bloody stools during pelvic radiation - may indicate radiation colitis requiring urgent care

EMERGENCY

Call 911 or nearest ER

URGENT

Doctor or urgent care

NON-URGENT

Regular appointment

Radiation Oncologist vs. Other Specialists

Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs. Here's how radiation oncologists compare to similar specialists:

Radiation Oncologist vs. Medical Oncologist

A radiation oncologist uses radiation therapy to treat cancer, delivering targeted high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. A medical oncologist uses systemic treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy that travel throughout the body. Many cancer patients see both specialists, as treatments are often combined for optimal outcomes.

Radiation Oncologist vs. Radiologist

A radiation oncologist is a treating physician who uses radiation to destroy cancer cells therapeutically. A radiologist is a diagnostic physician who interprets medical images (X-rays, CT scans, MRIs) to diagnose conditions. While both deal with radiation technology, their roles are very different - one treats, the other diagnoses.

Radiation Oncologist vs. Surgical Oncologist

A radiation oncologist treats cancer using radiation therapy as a non-invasive approach. A surgical oncologist treats cancer by surgically removing tumors and affected tissues. These specialists often work together, with radiation given before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells.

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 radiation oncologists is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and the following authoritative organizations:

ASTROAmerican Society for Radiation OncologyABRAmerican Board of RadiologyNCINational Cancer Institute

Last updated: December 2025

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Find Radiation Oncologists by City

Browse radiation oncologists in top cities across the United States

NEW YORK, NY141HOUSTON, TX131BOSTON, MA118PHILADELPHIA, PA76LOS ANGELES, CA67CLEVELAND, OH63ATLANTA, GA61CHICAGO, IL60ROCHESTER, MN59SEATTLE, WA57BALTIMORE, MD55PORTLAND, OR49

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a radiation oncologist and a medical oncologist?

A radiation oncologist is a physician who specializes in treating cancer with radiation therapy, using high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. A medical oncologist specializes in treating cancer with systemic therapies like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted drugs, and hormone therapy. Many cancer patients see both specialists as part of their multidisciplinary treatment team, with each contributing their expertise to the overall care plan.

Does radiation therapy hurt?

The radiation treatment itself is painless - you won't feel anything during the actual treatment session. However, side effects can develop over the course of treatment and may cause discomfort. Common side effects depend on the treatment area and may include skin irritation, fatigue, and localized symptoms. Your radiation oncologist will monitor you weekly and provide treatments to manage any side effects.

How long does radiation treatment take?

Treatment length varies based on your specific situation. Conventional radiation typically involves daily treatments (Monday through Friday) for 3-8 weeks. Hypofractionated regimens deliver larger doses over fewer sessions (1-3 weeks). Stereotactic treatments may be completed in 1-5 sessions. Each daily treatment session typically takes 10-20 minutes, though you may be at the center for 30-60 minutes including setup.

Will I be radioactive after treatment?

With external beam radiation (the most common type), you are not radioactive after treatment and can safely be around others, including children and pregnant women. With brachytherapy involving permanent seed implants (like for prostate cancer), there are temporary precautions for close contact. Your radiation oncologist will provide specific guidance based on your treatment type.

Can radiation therapy cure cancer?

Yes, radiation therapy can cure many types of cancer, either alone or in combination with surgery and/or chemotherapy. Cure rates depend on the cancer type, stage, and overall health. For example, early-stage prostate cancer, certain head and neck cancers, and early-stage lung cancer have high cure rates with radiation. Radiation can also provide excellent palliative care, relieving symptoms and improving quality of life when cure is not possible.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified health provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.

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