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Your GP is usually the first point of contact, and they can refer you to a specialist for initial diagnosis and treatment planning. However, you may prefer to choose a specialist based on your own research, or recommendations from family, friends or colleagues.
Finding a specialist that is part of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) is beneficial for patients as they receive a more coordinated and collaborative approach to their treatment. The MDT is a group of doctors, nurses and allied health professionals who manage cancer patients and work in partnership to determine the most suitable approach for individual patients. The team will usually meet regularly to discuss their patients’ needs and diagnosis to plan the best course of treatment.
Choosing a specialist
When choosing a specialist, consider the following:
Expertise: Look for specialists who have experience or a special interest treating your type of cancer
Communication: Choose someone you feel comfortable talking to and who explains things clearly
Location: Consider the specialist’s consultation and treatment location for convenience and benefits such as free parking. Some treatment schedules may require daily visits, so finding a specialist close to home may be an important factor
Waiting list: Check the wait time for treatment
Multidisciplinary teams: Choose a specialist that is part of a multidisciplinary team that can look after all aspects of your care
Financial: Check the costs for your treatment and note that up to 90% of the radiation oncology fee is funded by Medicare for private and public patients