28,543
Oncologists
100%
Accepting patients
83%
Most common: MD
FindClarity lists 28,543 oncologists nationwide. 100% are currently accepting new patients. The most common credential is MD (83%). 74% accept Medicare.
Oncologists specialize in diagnosing and treating cancer. Medical oncologists manage cancer with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy. Surgical oncologists perform tumor removal. Radiation oncologists deliver radiation therapy. When people refer to "my oncologist," they usually mean their medical oncologist, who coordinates the overall treatment plan.
Medical oncologists complete a three-year internal medicine residency followed by a three-year hematology-oncology fellowship. Their training covers the biology of cancer, clinical trial design, and the use of rapidly evolving treatment regimens. Oncology is one of the fastest-moving fields in medicine, with new drugs and approaches approved every year.
A cancer diagnosis is one of the most overwhelming experiences a person can face. Your oncologist is not just a treatment provider; they are your guide through the process, explaining options, managing side effects, and helping you make informed decisions about your care.
See an oncologist after a cancer diagnosis or if cancer is suspected based on biopsy results, imaging, or blood work. Your primary care doctor or the physician who found the abnormality will refer you. Some patients also see oncologists for genetic cancer risk counseling if they have a strong family history. Do not delay scheduling after a referral, as early treatment improves outcomes for most cancers.
The first oncology visit takes 60 to 90 minutes. The oncologist will review your pathology reports, imaging, and medical history in detail. They will explain the type and stage of cancer, outline treatment options (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or a combination), discuss expected side effects, and answer your questions. Many patients bring a family member or friend for support and to help remember details.
Office visit copay: $30-75 · Chemotherapy cycle: $1,000-12,000+ · Immunotherapy cycle: $5,000-20,000+ · PET scan: $1,000-6,000
Chemotherapy uses drugs that kill rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells and some healthy cells (which causes side effects like hair loss and nausea). Immunotherapy harnesses your own immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Immunotherapy often has different side effects and can produce longer-lasting responses for certain cancers. Your oncologist will recommend the approach best suited to your specific cancer type.
Yes. Reputable oncologists expect and encourage second opinions, especially for complex cases. A second opinion can confirm the diagnosis, verify the treatment plan, or present alternative approaches you may not have considered. Major cancer centers often offer multidisciplinary tumor boards where specialists from multiple fields review your case together.
Clinical trials test new treatments or new combinations of existing treatments. Participating in a trial gives you access to cutting-edge therapies that are not yet widely available. Every standard treatment used today was once part of a clinical trial. Ask your oncologist whether any open trials match your cancer type and stage. Trials have specific eligibility criteria.
Your oncology team manages side effects proactively. Anti-nausea medications have improved dramatically and prevent the worst of chemotherapy-related nausea for most patients. Fatigue, mouth sores, and immune suppression are managed with specific medications and lifestyle adjustments. Tell your care team about every side effect, no matter how minor. They have solutions for most problems.
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Cancer treatment is covered under medical insurance, but costs can be substantial. Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy may be covered under medical benefits (infusion) or pharmacy benefits (oral drugs). Prior authorization is required for most cancer medications. Ask about financial counseling services at your cancer center. Manufacturer copay programs, nonprofit grants, and hospital financial assistance can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.