Receiving a cancer diagnosis is one of the hardest moments of a person’s life. Their loved ones, family members, and friends become an essential support network to help them through this difficult time. But just as essential is a group of strangers: the members of their medical team.

Patients are not alone on the path to possible remission.

And when it comes to treating breast cancer, teamwork is key.

A multidisciplinary team of health providers provides care to patients with breast cancer. This team is made up of specialists, from medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists to pathologists and radiologists to geneticists and nurses. Other specialists may also take part, based on each patient’s individual needs.

Each team member is a critical part of this machine: they must communicate not only with the patient but also among themselves so that the treatment can be successful.

The main members of the primary medical team are:

Medical oncologist. This is a doctor who specializes in cancer. This professional is the cornerstone of the team, directly guiding treatment, connecting with other team members, and offering the patient guidance on medications, treatment options, and specific details related to care. The medical oncologist also evaluates laboratory test results, reactions to medications, and the results of treatment options.

Patients should have good communication with all members of their medical team, but it’s especially important to maintain an ongoing, open, and honest dialogue with the medical oncologist.

Surgical oncologist. This professional specializes in cancer treatments that use surgery to remove tumors. The surgical oncologist can request diagnostic exams (MRIs, laboratory tests, biopsies) to determine the best surgical treatment while collaborating with the medical oncologist to guide postoperative outcomes.

Radiation oncologist. This professional treats cancer with radiation. The radiation oncologist can design the treatment plan based on the type of cancer and the location of the tumors. Not all patients with cancer will need radiation as part of their treatment plan.

The radiation team may also include a radiation oncology nurse, who can provide patient education and help control radiation therapy‑related symptoms, and a radiation technologist, who operates the treatment machines.

Plastic surgeon. This is a physician who specializes in surgical breast reconstruction after cancer removal surgery or therapy. The plastic and reconstructive surgeon can help patients by advising them on the best surgical approach.

Genetic counselor. This medical genetics specialist reviews patients’ genetic history to see if they have any genetic markers that predispose them to cancer. A genetic counseling evaluation is not necessary for all patients. The counselor can also evaluate patients’ medical and family history and review diagnostic exams to determine the risk of cancer. Patients can decide to see a genetic counselor after they are first diagnosed.

Genetic counseling can be a preventive measure for people with a family history of breast cancer. The US National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends genetic testing for patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer.

Navigator. A patient navigator is a nurse, social worker, community health worker, or other health professional who helps patients overcome the barriers of the complex cancer care system. These barriers include the cost of treatment and other financial concerns (such as absences at work, lack of health insurance, or even difficulties keeping insurance), fear about the diagnosis or treatment, and misinformation about the disease.

Navigators don’t just provide educational information; many patients consider their navigator to be their support throughout their breast cancer treatment.

As there may be obstacles to care, such as transportation issues, childcare, or financial stress, a patient navigator can connect patients with helpful resources or support groups.