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Survivor Clinics
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: While I am being cared for in the survivor clinic will my oncologist still be my physician?
Answer: Yes. The physicians that treated you for cancer will always be your oncologists. In fact, your medical oncologist will be supervising the care provided by your advance practice clinician (APC). APCs are physician assistants and nurse practitioners who care for patients in the survivor clinic.
Question: What is the role of the advance practice clincian (APC)?
Answer: As part of their comprehensive responsibilities, APCs are trained to take medical histories, perform health assessments, conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat patients, order and interpret laboratory (diagnostic) tests and x-rays, prescribe certain medications, counsel on preventive health care and monitor all aspects of patient care, including diet and physical activity. APCs exercise autonomy in medical decision making and provide a broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic services.
Question: What is a physician assistant?
Answer: Physician Assistants, otherwise known as PAs, are specially trained health care professionals who have earned their master's degree in physician assistant studies. These health care professionals are licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision. Physician assistants are also known as APCs.
Question: What is a nurse practitioner?
Answer: Certified Registered Nurse Practitioners, otherwise known as CRNPs, are specially trained nurses who have earned their master's degree in nursing. These clinical oncology experts care for patients before, during and after treatment. Nurse practitioners are also known as APCs.
Question: How soon can I be referred to the survivor clinic?
Answer: This varies depending on the type of cancer for which you were treated. Generally speaking, however, you may be referred to the survivor clinic after 2 years have passed from the completion of definitive therapy for your cancer.
