Our Health Care Team
There are many different people who patients meet and work with at the GRRCC. The following list describes some of the members of our health care team and the services they provide. As each patient has different health needs, you will not necessarily work with all members of the team. Feel free to ask any of them for more information.
Oncologists are doctors who specialize in cancer treatment. They work with patients and the rest of the health care team to determine the best treatment plan and monitor side effects. There are three types of oncologists:
- Medical oncologists: doctors who treat cancer with medications (i.e., chemotherapy)
- Radiation oncologists: doctors who treat cancer with radiation therapy
- Surgical oncologists: surgeons who specialize in cancer surgery
Oncology nurses are registered nurses who specialize in cancer care. You will meet a number of different nurses:
- Inpatient oncology nurses: work with patients who require admission to the oncology unit in the hospital
- Chemotherapy nurses: work with patients who are receiving chemotherapy treatments in the outpatient centre
- Supportive care coordinators: meet with patients on their first visit. Supportive care coordinators become the main contact person to help with any questions or concerns you may have
Radiation therapists work with radiation oncologists to plan and deliver radiation treatments and monitor any side effects.
Medical physicists work closely with radiation oncologists and therapists to plan treatments and ensure they are accurate. They also monitor and maintain the radiation treatment units known as linear accelerators.
Social workers are available to help patients and family members with any emotional and practical concerns. They also help with financial issues and finding support services within the community.
Dietitians are available to help with nutritional needs. Some treatments can affect appetite or nutrition. They work with the health care team to provide information, suggestions or alternatives that help in diet management.
Spiritual care is available for patients and family members to discuss concerns and assist in locating spiritual support within the community.
Physiotherapists and occupational therapists focus on patients' rehabilitation needs resulting from illness and help improve function.
Pharmacists prepare and dispense medications ordered by physicians. They provide information about the medications, their side effects and are happy to answer any questions.
Palliative care and pain and symptom management physicians work with care teams to manage complex symptoms resulting from your illness (i.e., pain, nausea, lack of appetite, fatigue).
Administrative and support staff offer support behind the scenes to ensure that the best possible care is provided.