Choosing Your Provider
If you or a loved one have been newly diagnosed with cancer, deciding where to seek treatment can seem overwhelming.
Choosing the right oncologist at the right facility is one of the most important decisions you will make. It is important that you make informed choices, taking an active role in order to regain some sense of control.
You should feel confident that your oncologist is the best choice for you. The physicians of Nebraska Cancer Specialists are some of the most experienced and highly qualified in the area.
Nebraska Cancer Specialists has received QOPI certification consistent with the highest standards of care. This recognition speaks to the standard of care our patients can expect and makes Nebraska Cancer Specialists the largest QOPI certified practice in the region. Along with our friendly, caring staff, our warm and inviting atmosphere helps you and your family manage cancer treatment in comfort.
Your care at Nebraska Cancer Specialists will not only be in the hands of the physician, but our entire team, including support staff, nurses and medical assistants. Our convenient locations allow you to receive treatment close to home. Our free standing cancer centers in West Omaha and Papillion allow for parking at the door, as does our Fremont location at Fremont Health. Our Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center offers complimentary valet parking.
What is an Oncologist?
 |
An Oncology specialist is a physician who focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of different cancers. This physician has extensive knowledge of the different signs and symptoms of cancer, as well as the various methods of treatment. An oncologist is a physician who trained in internal medicine before becoming a cancer specialist.The oncologist you choose will be your first point of contact, and will guide you through your journey with cancer. He or she will be your primary care physician during your cancer treatment, and it is of utmost importance that you are comfortable and confident in their decision making. Your oncologist, with others, will: |
 1. Determine the tests needed to make a final treatment decision with you |
 2. Prescribe and oversee your treatment |
 3. Direct the follow-up tests needed to determine the next steps |
Are they Board Certified or eligible?
All physicians are licensed to ensure a general competency to diagnose and treat patients. Those who have chosen to specialize in a particular disease receive significant additional training. Once they have achieved a certain level of proficiency, physicians are eligible to be certified by a national organization, for example the American Board of Internal Medicine, which ensures consistent high quality care. Board Certification, or eligibility for Board Certification, means that your doctor has achieved adept training in the complexities of medical oncology.
After three years of internal medicine training, an extra two or three years of cancer training and education are required in order to be Board Eligible. A designation of “Board Certified” indicates your physician has intensified his studies, and successfully completed examinations for this distinctive certification.
How much experience do they have treating my type of disease?
Most oncologists have proficient experience in treating common cancers. Should your specific cancer be uncommon or rare, you should feel comfortable asking if and how the medical oncologist will consult and collaborate with other physicians and oncologists to guarantee you receive the most up-to-date and effective treatments for your specific disease.
How do they partner with other health team members?
Tumor boards are a treatment planning approach in which medical oncologists discuss cases in detail with surgical, radiation, pathology and other specialists. Ask your doctor if he participates in tumor boards. Discuss how your care will be coordinated with your primary care physician and other specialists that you see.
Do they welcome second opinions?
A physician who is confident in their treatment recommendation will normally welcome second opinions, and be open to the request. Occasionally, an oncologist might suggest a second opinion from a fellow colleague with exceptional experience in treating a specific tumor.
How well does the oncologist listen to you, and how comfortable do you feel with the responses?
You should feel comfortable with your oncologist and feel that he or she listens and respects your opinions. How does the oncologist respond to questions or requests for clarification? You want to be sure you feel comfortable and completely understand the information your oncologist is providing during your cancer journey.
WHAT MAKES UP A PHYSICIAN TEAM
Choosing the right physician at the right place is one of the biggest decisions you will make.
The physicians of Nebraska Cancer Specialists are some of the most experienced and highly qualified in the area. At NCS, not only will you have a medical oncologist, you will have an entire dedicated team to support you, and have access to, throughout your treatment. We have received the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI) and American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) certifications consistent with the highest standards of care.
MEDICAL ONCOLOGIST
A medical oncologist is a physician who focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. This physician has extensive knowledge of the varying signs and symptoms of cancer, as well as the different methods of treatment. The medical oncologist influences every aspect of your care and works closely with you, your family and your care team.
ADVANCED PRACTICE PROVIDER
Our team of compassionate Nurse Practitioners (NP) and Physician Assistants (PA) work closely with our oncologists. Both NPs and PAs have advanced training in diagnosing and treating patients and can administer exams, order tests, interpret diagnostics and write prescriptions
NURSE CASE MANAGER
Your oncology nurse case manager works closely with your medical oncologist and is your first point of contact between visits. They can help you with any symptoms you are having or any other questions or concerns. You are encouraged to reach out to them by calling the clinic. A trained operator will take your information and notify your nurse case manager immediately of your call.
MEDICAL ASSISTANT
Your medical assistant will meet you after check-in and obtain your vital signs and weight. This will happen at every visit. Your medication list will also be reviewed at each visit. It is very important we are aware of the medications you are taking to avoid interference with your treatment regimen.
SCHEDULER
Each medical oncology care team is rounded out with a dedicated patient scheduler. Your scheduler will scheduler all of your appointments, including additional tests, scans or referrals.
NEBRASKA CANCER SPECIALISTS TREATMENT TEAM
Diagnosing and treating cancer is complex. Patients need the care and experience of a dedicated team of oncology trained medical professionals.
In addition to your physician care team, a network of staff is here to ensure you are not alone. Our focus is to make everything as simple and reassuring as possible.
PATIENT FINANCIAL ADVOCATE
We understand the financial burden cancer care can have on patients and their families. We have designated patient financial advocates that work one-on-one with patients to review insurance benefits, coordinate alternative payment methods.
ONCOLOGY TRAINED AND CERTIFIED INFUSION NURSES AND MEDICAL ASSISTANTS
The Infusion nurses have been specially trained and certified to administer chemotherapy and other medications. The RNs in the infusion suite assess symptoms and collaborate with providers for the best outcomes for patients. They coordinate care with other members of your care team, and educate and counsel patients and families.
INFUSION MEDICAL ASSISTANTS (MA)
The Infusion Medical Assistants (MA) work closely with the Infusion RNs and are trained to administer injections and obtain specimens. They also review blood work and discuss symptoms you may be having.
LABORATORY SERVICES
The lab at NCS is staffed with Medical Technologists and Phlebotomists. These highly trained professionals perform blood draws, prepare specimens and analyze results.
RESEARCH
With over 100 clinical trials available at Nebraska Cancer Specialists, it takes a team of dedicated professionals. The research team provides our medical oncologists convenient access to updated clinical trial information to explore options with patients.
RADIATION ONCOLOGIST
Our radiation oncologists are specialty physicians who use ionizing radiation in the treatment of cancer. Your treatment plan may or may not include this treatment.
PHARMACIST
Oncology pharmacists play an important role in the delivery of care to patients living with cancer. Our team of Oncology Certified Pharmacists and their team of certified pharmacy technicians work together to prepare your treatment onsite in the clinic, especially for you.
VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers provide valuable supportive services to patients and their family. You may see a volunteer around offering a warm blanket, a listening ear or support.