Medical Oncology is a dynamic and rapidly evolving area of medicine dedicated to treating various cancers and requires physicians with diverse expertise and skills.

A medical oncologist is a doctor who evaluates test results for indications of cancer, and coordinates and oversees medical care. Once a patient receives a diagnosis, medical oncologists prescribe and monitor treatments such as chemotherapy, hormones and analgesics (medications to reduce pain) in the management of cancer. The role of the medical oncologist is more than just prescribing medications to treat cancer. He conducts research into cancers and care for the patient from the moment of diagnosis throughout the course of the disease and survivorship by:

• Educating the patient about his/her form of cancer and the stages of its development
• Discussing treatment options and making recommendations to the patient
• Monitoring the care and treatment of the patient throughout the course of the disease
• Working with the patient to improve the quality of life through healing therapy and in the management of pain and symptoms.
  
• Testing for viruses that can cause cancer (eg,H. pylori; human papilloma virus (HPV); hepatitis B)