Immunotherapy Care Team

These health care professionals work closely with your medical oncologist in the clinic. There are two types: physician assistants (PAs) and advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNPs). They help provide and coordinate your treatment and can see you independently from your physician. They also help manage the effects of your disease and treatment.

This physician oversees your medicine-based treatments. Most people begin treatment by getting chemotherapy. Some people get targeted therapy or immunotherapy. If watchful waiting is right for you, you see this physician on a regular schedule to check your health and, if needed, start treatment.

Your hematologist-oncologist:

• Sees you during your first visit. They evaluate you and order any tests you need to diagnose or stage your disease.
• Explains what your diagnosis and stage mean, and answers your questions.
• Recommends medicine-based treatments to match your specific case. They select the medicines, doses, schedule and sequence. They also talk with you about the benefits and risks.
• Sees you on a regular schedule to check how your cancer responds to treatment and how you are overall.
• Offers you ways to prevent, relieve and cope with side effects of treatment — like medicine to help with nausea.
• Coordinates with the rest of your care team if you need other types of treatment.

You receive any infusions in a dedicated area of the clinic. Cancer nurses who specialize in infusions give these treatments. They also check you during each infusion. They respond to any medical issues that come up and help keep you comfortable.

This physician oversees your medicine-based treatments. Most people receive chemotherapy. Some people get targeted therapy or immunotherapy. If watchful waiting is right for you, you see this doctor on a regular schedule to check your health and, if needed, start treatment.

 Your medical oncologist:

• Sees you during your first visit. They evaluate you and order any tests you need to diagnose or stage your disease.
• Explains what your diagnosis and stage mean, and answers your questions.
• Recommends medicine-based treatments to match your specific case. They select the medicines, doses, schedule and sequence. They also talk with you about the benefits and risks.
• Sees you on a regular schedule to check how your cancer responds to treatment and how you are overall.
• Offers you ways to prevent, relieve and cope with side effects of treatment — like medicine to help with nausea.
• Coordinates with the rest of your care team if you need other types of treatment.

Your nurse manages your care alongside your physician.. They also assist with procedures and treatments. Nurses are resources for you and your caregiver. They answer questions and help with a wide range of topics, like how to cope with side effects or get other services you need at Fred Hutch.

Many types of supportive care team members are here to help you and your family. They include registered dietitians, physical therapists, pain medicine specialists, psychologists, social workers, spiritual health staff, palliative care specialists, a naturopath and an acupuncturist.

Learn more about Supportive Care Services

Your patient care coordinator works closely with you and your physician. They will schedule your appointments.