Oncology Specialties 

The words nobody wants to hear: "You have cancer" 

And when you hear those words, the road ahead can seem difficult. But the most important thing to understand is that you won’t face cancer alone. Your oncologist, along with family and friends, will partner with you to fight the disease. 

The experienced team of oncology physicians on staff at Palm Beach Health Network’s Cancer Centers Beach have dedicated their careers to the treatment of cancer. Their training and experience are broad and diverse, allowing you to be treated by professionals who specialize in the particular type of cancer you have.  

Our patients can take comfort in knowing that our patient navigator will provide the comfort and support they need, and will guide them every step of the way from post-diagnosis to treatment and recovery. 

Treatments 

A wide range of cancer treatment options is available with Palm Beach Health Network. From chemotherapy to Gamma Knife radiosurgery to Proton Therapy, we are dedicated to treating even the most severe cases. Your emotional wellbeing is important to us and as part of our comprehensive approach to cancer care, we offer resources including individual and family counseling, support groups, and referrals to pain management services. 

Cancer treatment could include: 

• Medical Oncology - A medical oncologist often is the main health care provider for someone who has cancer. A medical oncologist also gives supportive care and may coordinate treatment given by other specialists. This doctor has special training in diagnosing and treating cancer in adults using:
  • Chemotherapy
  • Hormonal therapy
  • Biological therapy
  • Targeted therapy 

• Radiation Oncology - Radiation oncology (radiotherapy/radiation therapy) is a medical specialty that uses high energy x rays(photons) most commonly delivered through a linear accelerator. A radiation oncologist has special training using radiation to treat cancer.
  
  At the Palm Beach Health Network, we specialize in Gamma Knife radiosurgery (link) for the treatment of brain cancer as well as Proton Therapy (link) which directs photon beams to a tumor through the body’s surface. Proton therapy administer treatments using the TrueBeam® Radiotherapy System and considered one of the most effective tools in the fight against cancer. 

•  Surgical Oncology - A surgical oncologist is surgeon who has special training in performing biopsies and other surgical procedures in cancer patients. At Palm Beach Health Network’s Cancer Centers, surgical oncologists work with a comprehensive approach and multidisciplinary team to combine with other therapies required by the patient’s comprehensive treatment plan.
  
  Whether a patient is a candidate for cancer surgery depends on factors such as the type, size, location, grade and stage of the tumor. Other general health factors are also taken into account, such as the patient's age, physical fitness and any coexisting health conditions he or she may have.
  
  With minimally invasive robotic surgical options, you can find hope at Palm Beach Health Network’s Cancer Centers. 

• Robotic Surgery - When it comes to surgeries for conditions such as prostate, endometrial, and cervical cancer, the da Vinci® SI HD Robotic Surgical System is designed to offer improved access, precision and control. Surgeons can carry out extremely complex operations through a few small incisions, which may result in: 
  • Less pain, blood loss and scarring
  • Shorter recovery times with a quicker return to regular activities
  • In many cases, improved clinical outcomes