In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce focuses on the importance of building a strong cancer care team. She explains the roles of various medical team members, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, and different types of nurses and nurse practitioners. She also highlights nonmedical support staff like social workers, nutritionists, and counselors.

Dr. JYP emphasizes the value of relying on your caregivers and fellow patients for support, and the need to inform primary care doctors and other specialists about your cancer diagnosis. She briefly discusses alternative therapies, advising caution and open communication with oncologists about any such treatments. The goal of the cancer team is to provide comprehensive support to help patients feel like themselves and achieve the best possible outcomes in their cancer journey.

Enjoy this information-packed episode.

3 Key Takeaways

1. Comprehensive Cancer Team: Learn about the different types of oncologists (medical, radiation, and surgical), and their distinct roles in your cancer care journey. Understanding these roles can help you better navigate and utilize your care team.

2. Essential Support Services: Discover the crucial nonclinical team members who can provide significant support, such as nurse navigators, financial counselors, nutritionists, social workers, and more. These professionals can help ease the burden of non-medical concerns.

3. Inclusivity of Care: Remember your existing healthcare providers, and keep them in the loop so that everyone is on the same page for your cancer treatment and beyond.

Show Overview


02:39 Introduction of the types of doctors and their roles on your cancer team.

05:39 Nurses and nurse practitioners are integral to your care.

08:13 Cancer center services include navigators and medical support.

13:42 Support groups provide helpful advice and mentorship for cancer patients.

17:47 If needed, ask the team for help with anxiety and depression. Some alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, can relieve discomfort in cancer patients.

19:48 JYP cautions against using herbal supplements for cancer treatment.These should always be cleared by the cancer team.