With their unique expertise, clinical oncologists are responsible for cancer management and treatment including radiotherapy and systemic anticancer therapies such as chemotherapy. Together with a patient’s GP, a clinical/ medical oncologist is often the key medical contact for a cancer patient.

Medical oncologists specialise in the treatment of cancer with systemic anticancer therapies, whereas clinical oncologists perform the same role but are also qualified to use radiotherapy. Cancer treatment is extremely varied and complex and depends on each patient’s circumstances. This means clinical oncologists work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals including nurses, radiographers, physicists and pharmacists to ensure patients receive the best possible care throughout their journey.

It is these multidisciplinary teams that assess and treat cancer using various treatments and interventions.