A medical team for someone diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer typically consists of multiple healthcare professionals specializing in different aspects of treatment and care. Here are the key members:
Primary Care Physician (PCP):
Your PCP is your usual doctor—the one you see for your annual exam. Your PCP will refer you to a breast cancer specialist, called an oncologist, if they think that you may have cancer. Your PCP will still coordinate your overall care and will continue to take care of you for non-cancer related health concerns.
Breast Surgeon:
A doctor who specializes in surgical procedures related to removing breast cancer, including lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery), mastectomy (breast removal), and lymph node dissection.
Medical Oncologist:
A doctor who specializes in treating cancer using chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. They oversee these treatments.
Radiation Oncologist:
A doctor who is responsible for radiation therapy, which is sometimes used before surgery to shrink a tumor or, more often, used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Pathologist:
A doctor who analyzes tissue samples (biopsies) under a microscope to diagnose breast cancer. They provide information on the cancer's type, grade, hormone receptor status, HER2 status, and other characteristics.
Plastic Surgeon:
A doctor who specializes in reconstructive surgery to restore the shape and appearance of the breast following a mastectomy.
Radiologist:
A doctor who interprets mammograms, ultrasound, MRI, and CT scans to diagnose breast cancer, monitor treatment response, and detect any recurrence.
Oncology Nurse:
A nurse that provides education, coordinates care, and supports patients throughout their cancer journey, including administering treatments, managing side effects, and offering emotional support.
Genetic Counselor:
A medical professional who assesses family cancer risk, discusses genetic testing options (e.g., BRCA1/2 mutations), and provides guidance for the patient and their family members.
Patient Navigator:
A trained professional—often a nurse or a social worker—who is there to help patients navigate their diagnosis, including keeping track of and scheduling your doctor’s visits, helping with insurance or hospital forms, finding local resources, answering questions, and more. When you meet your navigator, start by asking “What can you help me with?”
Psychologist/Counselor:
A mental health professional who offers emotional support, coping strategies, and counseling to help patients and their families navigate the emotional and psychological challenges of a cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Nutritionist/Dietitian:
A health professional who provides guidance on nutrition and diet tailored to support treatment, recovery, and overall well-being during and after cancer treatment.
Physical Therapist:
A licensed professional who helps patients regain strength, mobility, and function after surgery or other treatments, addressing issues like lymphedema (swelling) and promoting physical well-being.
Each member of the medical team plays a crucial role in providing comprehensive care, ensuring the best possible outcomes, and supporting the patient's physical, emotional, and psychological needs. Whenever you meet a new member of your medical team, start by asking them what their role is in your care. And make sure to ask your cancer center or treatment facility what additional resources they have available for patients, both during and after treatment.
