Oncologist

Oncologists study, diagnose, and treat cancerous tumors, practicing in hospitals and medical centers, university hospitals, and research organizations.

Oncological specialists require certification:

• Gynecological oncology: The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) examines and certifies obstetricians and gynecologists who choose to acquire additional education and training to subspecialize in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers of the female reproductive organs (e.g., cervical cancer, breast cancer). See gynecologic oncologist for more information.
• Medical oncology: The American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) examines and certifies internists who choose to acquire additional education and training to subspecialize in medical oncology, the use of medical and chemotherapeutic treatments of cancer.
• Medical oncology and hematology: The American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) examines and certifies internists who choose to acquire additional education and training in the dual subspecialty of medical oncology and hematology (the treatment of malignancies of the blood and blood-forming tissues).
• Pediatric oncology and hematology: The American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) examines and certifies pediatricians who choose to acquire additional education and training to subspecialize in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers in children (e.g., leukemia).
• Radiation oncology: The American Board of Radiology (ABR) examines and certifies radiation oncologists, who specialize in radiation treatment of cancers.
• Surgical oncology: The American Board of Surgery (ABS) examines and certifies surgeons who are trained in several types of surgical treatments, including biopsy, tumor staging, and tumor resection (removal).