A radiation oncologist is a medical doctor with years of specialized training in using radiation to treat cancer. In partnership with the other members of the treatment team, the radiation oncologist develops a treatment plan specifically tailored to your child.

The radiation oncologist will explain to you and your child what radiation is, how it will be administered, and any possible side effects. She will also answer all your questions about the proposed treatment. You will be given a consent form to review prior to the first treatment. Take the consent form home if you need extra time to read it. Parents should not sign the consent form until they thoroughly understand all benefits, risks, alternatives to, and possible side effects of the radiation. During the radiation treatment, the radiation oncologist will meet at least weekly with you and your child to discuss how the treatment is going and to address concerns or answer questions.