Cancer Nurse Co-ordinator (CNC)
A cancer nurse co-ordinator provides assistance and information through all stages of diagnosis and treatment. They acts as a ‘care coordinator’ and can assist in navigating the healthcare system and advising on which other professionals need to be involved for a particular problem or issue.
Neurologist
A neurologist diagnoses and treats diseases of the brain and nervous system. In brain tumour care, most people will not see a neurologist regularly. However, people who have difficult to control seizures or who need more than one or two anti-convulsant medications may need to see a neurologist.
Occupational Therapist
The occupational therapist provides rehabilitation services and help with physical issues. The occupational therapist can do home visits, assess a persons’ ability to return home and any modifications that might be needed, and provide equipment for use at home.
Physiotherapist
The physiotherapist can assist with strength, mobility and mobility aids. They have an important role in rehabilitation. They can help people make the most of any physical limitation and reach their physical potential.
Psychiatrist
A psychiatrist is a doctor trained in psychological medicine. A psychiatrist may become involved if people have pre-existing mental health diagnoses that are causing difficulties with their treatment, or if the disease or treatment causes new mental health problems. They may also be involved if anxiety or depression related to the cancer diagnosis are severe and need medical treatment over what the GP is able to provide.
Psychologist
A psychologist is a professional who practices psychology and studies mental states, perceptual, cognitive, emotional, and social processes and behaviour. Before being referred to a psychiatrist, they may also be involved if anxiety or depression related to the cancer diagnosis are severe and need medical treatment over what the GP is able to provide.
Speech Therapist
A speech therapist is an allied health professional who is an expert in speech and swallowing issues. For patients with brain tumours, they may assist with swallowing rehabilitation, and help with communication strategies for people with dysphasia (word finding difficulties).