Facing a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming for patients and their loved ones and finding the right doctor is crucial for navigating this challenging journey. It requires access to skilled specialists and advanced treatment facilities. Oncology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer by chemotherapy, hormone therapy & immunotherapy and is primarily responsible for prescribing and implementing treatment along with diagnosing and treating complications unique to cancer and coordinating the total treatment plan for cancer patients.
For patients in Bangladesh seeking high-quality oncology care, several excellent options exist both locally and in neighbouring India. At Medtrip Planner, we understand the importance of expert care and support, and we’ll guide you through the process of finding the best doctor for your needs. We help patients and families in Bangladesh connect with leading oncologists both locally and abroad. Medtrip Planner offers comprehensive guidance and support through every step of the journey so that you can be carefree.
TYPES OF ONCOLOGISTS:
Depending upon the nature, stage, and location of cancer, oncology has three main specialities: medical oncology, surgical oncology, and radiation oncology, offering specialised services for each treatment. There are also several sub-specialities as well, such as gynaecologic oncology (cancers of the female reproductive system), paediatric oncology (childhood cancers), neuro-oncology (brain and spinal cord tumours), and haematology/oncology (blood cancers).
Medical oncologists Focuses on using medications to treat cancer, including chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and hormonal therapy. They are the primary healthcare provider for a cancer patient who leads the development of the patient’s treatment. They work in conjunction with the other medical departments for the best results. A medical oncologist is also the responsible head who continues with the follow-ups and check-ups of the patients post-treatment.
Radiation oncologists are doctors who treat cancer through radiation therapy, such as high-energy x-rays or other particles to destroy cancerous cells. Often oncologists use the radiation to reduce the tumor or slow the tumor growth without affecting the neighbouring tissues, when it’s not possible to completely destroy the cancer cells. This is called palliative therapy. The main objective of the therapy is to improve the patient’s quality of life by controlling the tumor’s growth and its related symptoms.
At times the radiation oncologist also implements brachytherapy to treat the cancer patients where radioactive sources are implanted directly into or next to the tumour. Depending upon the type of cancer, the radioactive radiation sources may be left in place permanently or removed at the end of each treatment session.
Surgical oncologists specialise in performing surgery to treat cancer, including tumour removal and biopsies. They are basically general surgeons who undertake additional training in oncology and related surgical procedures. They are also specialised in performing certain types of biopsies to help diagnose cancer.
KEY FACTORS TO KEEP IN MIND WHILE SEARCHING FOR THE BEST ONCOLOGIST
Finding the right cancer specialist (oncologist) can take time. It is important that you find a doctor you feel comfortable with and who will work with you through your diagnosis and treatment. The most primary step is to first look for a doctor who treats your type of cancer. Some doctors in large cancer centres limit their services to people with specific types of cancer. Locating an oncologist who specialises in treating breast, prostate, lung, colorectal, or other types of cancer can be extra helpful if you have a rare type of cancer or one that is hard to treat.
Before starting to look for a doctor, there are a few crucial things to keep in mind and research through.
● Choose a doctor who has experience treating your type of cancer, someone who is familiar with and uses the latest standards, guidelines, and research.
● Patience review is one of the important things to look for. A simple online search can pull up a lot of information on a given doctor, including patient reviews. This gives you an inside glimpse into how patients, just like you, feel about a doctor.
● Always seek more than one opinion. Before making the decision to transition doctors, considering a second opinion can provide valuable insights and peace of mind.
● Choose a doctor you feel comfortable with. Some individuals want their doctors to have a business-like manner, while others value a doctor who can help with their emotional health as well as their medical needs.
● Most of them have Board certifications in specialties like oncology and hematology. These credentials show expertise in the field and can help foster trust that they are eligible to deliver the specialized care you need.
CANCER TREATMENT OPTIONS IN BANGLADESH
Bangladesh has seen significant improvements in cancer care facilities and has developed its healthcare infrastructure over the past decade, with highly qualified oncologists practicing in major cities like Dhaka and Chittagong. These facilities offer various treatment modalities including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. And often for complex cases, neighbouring country India also offers advanced treatment options with certified specialists.
Cancer Specialists in Dhaka
Dhaka, as the capital city, hosts the highest concentration of cancer specialists in Bangladesh. Several respected oncologists practice at institutions and they offer these facilities with dedicated oncology departments with specialists who have received training both locally and internationally. Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women in Bangladesh. Fortunately, Dhaka has several experienced breast cancer specialists who offer comprehensive care. These specialists provide services ranging from early detection and screening to advanced surgical interventions and post-treatment care.
Cancer Specialists in Chittagong
As the second-largest city in Bangladesh, Chittagong also offers quality cancer care options. Hematological malignancies require specialized care, and Bangladesh has made strides in this area. Blood cancer specialists in Bangladesh offer treatments for leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Many of these specialists have received specialized training abroad and have brought their expertise back to help patients in Bangladesh.
Cancer Treatment in India
For complex cases or second opinions, patients from Bangladesh may consider treatment options in neighboring India, which offers advanced cancer treatment facilities and experienced specialists.
India is known for its advanced liver cancer treatment options, including, minimally invasive surgical techniques, advanced radiation therapy, liver transplantation services etc. Top hospitals in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai offer comprehensive liver cancer treatment programs with high success rates and competitive costs compared to Western countries.
HOW MEDTRIPLANNER FACILITATES YOUR CANCER TREATMENT JOURNEY IN THE BEST POSSIBLE WAY?
Medtrip Planner specialises in connecting patients with the right medical professionals based on their specific needs. Our services include:
1. Identifying the top cancer specialists in Bangladesh or India based on your diagnosis
2. Arranging consultations with multiple specialists to ensure you receive the most appropriate care
3. Coordinating all travel arrangements at an affordable rate if treatment abroad is necessary
4. Providing interpretation services and cultural guidance
5. Managing follow-up care coordination between international and local doctors
6. Always open to create a comfortable environment and a room for second opinions for very patience and their family.
Whether you’re searching for a blood cancer specialist in Bangladesh, or in Chittagong, or the best liver cancer treatment in India, Medtrip Planner is here to guide you every step of the way. Our dedicated team is always ready to support you through every step of this challenging but hopeful journey.