Your team will include a transplant oncologist (sometimes called an “attending physician”) and a registered nurse who specializes in blood and marrow transplant. At some visits, you might see an advanced practice provider or a registered dietitian. A team coordinator schedules your visits.
If you have complications or side effects during your engraftment and recovery, we can call in other Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center specialists to help. For example, if you have skin, heart or digestive issues, we might call in a dermatologist, cardiologist or gastroenterologist.
We also have experts who can help you with dental care, pain services, physical therapy, Child Life Services and integrative medicine. Supportive care providers, such as psychologists or social workers, are available if you need them. If you or your family members do not speak English, we can arrange for specially-trained medical interpreter services.
What Each Team Member Does
Transplant Oncologist
This physician specializes in blood and marrow transplants (BMTs) and will oversee your treatments. A transplant oncologist sees you on a regular schedule to check how your cancer responds to treatment and how you are overall. You may also hear this provider referred to as your “attending physician.”
Advanced Practice Provider (APP)
These health care professionals work closely with your transplant oncologist. There are two types: physician assistants (PAs) and advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNPs). They help provide and coordinate your treatment and can see you without your physician. They also help manage any effects of your disease and treatment.
Team Nurse
Your nurses manage your care alongside your physician. They also help with procedures and treatments. Nurses are resources for you and your caregiver. They can answer questions on a wide range of topics, like how to cope with side effects or get other services you need at Fred Hutch.
Registered Dietician
Registered dietitians are credentialed food and nutrition experts. To earn this title, they must go through a lot of training and formal education, including doing an internship and passing a national registration exam. Registered dietitians provide medical nutrition therapy, which means they use an evidence-based approach to treat and help patients manage medical conditions through diet and nutrition.
Pharmacist
Fred Hutch pharmacists fill the medications prescribed by your physician. They will teach you the right way to take your medications, and they can tell you what side effects may happen and what to do if you have side effects.
Social Worker
Fred Hutch social workers are professionals who are trained to offer support to patients who have received a cancer diagnosis, are going through cancer treatment or are in recovery. They also work with people who are at high risk for cancer. Oncology social workers are key team members who have the knowledge and resources to help connect you with the right resources, such as psychiatry and psychology services, to support you through preventive care or treatment.
Team Coordinator
Your team coordinator works closely with you and your physician. They serve as your scheduler.