If you have been referred to a gynecologic oncologist, it is most likely because your doctor suspects you may have ovarian cancer or another type of gynecologic malignancy, and they want you to be seen by a specialist who can provide you with the best care.
A gynecologic oncologist is an obstetrician/gynecologist (OBGYN) who specializes in treating women with reproductive tract cancers. They undergo an additional three to five years of specialized training in all the effective forms of treatment for gynecological cancers, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and experimental therapy, as well as advanced education in biology and the pathology of gynecologic cancers.
The primary role of the gynecologic oncologist is to work with you to develop an effective treatment plan and help you understand the necessary steps that it entails. Why is this important? Because research shows that there are significant survival advantages for women who are treated by a gynecologic oncologist.
For one thing, a gynecologic oncologist is five times more likely to totally remove ovarian tumors during surgery compared to the removal of tumor tissue done by a non-gynecologic oncology surgeon. Consequently, survival rates and outcomes for women with ovarian cancer improve considerably when their condition is managed and treated by a gynecologic oncologist.
In many cases, it’s just a matter of finding the right gynecology oncologist for your particular needs.
Focusing on Finding the Right Gynecologic Oncologist
Often, the doctor who originally diagnosed your cancer can help you choose a gynecologic oncologist. However, be aware that a doctor may practice gynecologic oncology without being board-certified in the subspecialty. For the best expert care, you should find a gynecologic oncologist with the right qualifications, namely board certification, because it confirms that the doctor has specialized knowledge and skill in treating women with gynecologic cancer.
A board-certified gynecologic oncologist is a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) who has completed their specialized residency training in obstetrics and gynecology, passed a certification examination, and completed fellowship training.
Finding a qualified gynecologic oncologist with whom you feel comfortable working with can be a considerably easier task by contacting University OB/GYN Associates.
Gynecologic Oncology in Syracuse, New York
Being diagnosed with gynecologic cancer can be a frightening experience. However, if detected early and promptly addressed, your cancer can be effectively treated with the right gynecologic oncologist in your corner.
Upstate Medical University, in association with University OB/GYN Associates, has an extensive group of physicians and advanced practice providers working together to deliver a broad spectrum of services to meet any woman’s every need. The division of Gynecologic Oncology provides leading, comprehensive care for women with cancers of the reproductive system. This includes cancer of the uterus, ovaries, cervix, fallopian tubes, vulva, and vagina.
Our board-certified and fellowship trained gynecology oncologists offer a full range of diagnostic and therapeutic options for women, including:
- Genetic testing
- Laparoscopic surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
These specialists at University OB/GYN Associates and Upstate Medical University participate in clinical trials with the National Cancer Institute, which provides patients with access to the latest developments in the treatment of gynecologic cancers.
To schedule an appointment with a gynecologic oncologist in Syracuse, New York, and get started on the road to recovery, please call University OB/GYN Associates at (315) 464-5162.
