Who’s in your team?
Which health professionals will I see?
If your GP or another doctor suspects you have a brain or spinal cord tumour, they will arrange the first tests to investigate your symptoms. You may then be referred to a neurologist, neurosurgeon or oncologist who will examine you and may do more tests and advise you about your treatment options.
You will be cared for by a range of health professionals who specialise in different aspects of your treatment (called multidisciplinary care). Your team will probably include some or all of the following health professionals.
Registered nurses who are clinical experts within their speciality. Some hospitals may offer a CNS that specialise in brain tumours.
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
Diagnoses and treats people with tumours, mainly using chemotherapy
Medical Oncologist
Diagnoses and treats diseases of the brain and nervous system, particularly those not requiring surgery
Neurologist
A medical doctor who has trained in the field of psychiatry and has a special interest in the behaviour and psychological effects of neurological diseases or injury to the brain
Neuropsychiatrist
Provides assessment and treatment for people who have problems with memory, thinking and reasoning, or with anxiety and depression
Neuropsychologist
Specialises in examining brain cells and identifying them
Neuropathologist
Diagnoses and surgically treats diseases and injuries of the brain and nervous system
Neurosurgeon
Nurses who specialise in the care of patients with cancer.
Oncology Nurses
Works with people to help restore movement, mobility and normal body function. A physiotherapist who specialises in treating people with neurological conditions is called a neurophysiotherapist.
Physiotherapist
Specialises in the use of radiation in the treatment of cancer
Radiation Oncologist
Hospital doctors who work as part of your team delivering your care.
Registrars and house surgeons
Assess, treat, care for and support patients in hospitals, clinics, and their homes.
Registered nurses
Aims to improve the patient’s social situation and can arrange access to government services such as Work and Income