Medical oncologists specialise in the investigation, study, diagnosis, management, and systemic treatment of malignant disease. Medical oncology is a multidisciplinary specialty that requires proficiency in medical sciences, clinical medicine, diagnostic medicine, and pharmacology.

Medical oncologists exhibit these key attributes and skills to diagnose, treat, and support patients with cancer, and other conditions:

Expert diagnostic skills. Medical oncologists manage a broad range of cancers, including developing optimal treatment plans for cancer patients and managing the side effects of cancer treatments. Medical oncologists must be able to effectively determine which type of cancer their patients have, as well as what stage the cancer is. As many forms of cancer are life-threatening, being able to diagnose them correctly is an integral part of the job.

Broad clinical experience and skills. Medical oncology requires a breadth of clinical experience and skills in caring for acute medical problems and chronic illness, patients’ and families’ emotional needs, symptom control, survivorship, and end-of-life care.

Evidence-based treatment and therapy. Medical oncologists use a broad range of preventative, definitive and palliative medicines such as chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, molecular targeted agents, immunotherapy, and analgesics. A key role of the medical oncologist is to assess and manage patients' diseases and symptoms using effective evidence-based techniques.

Interpersonal and communication skills. Medical oncologists advocate for patients and their families within the healthcare system. Cancer patients and their families and/or carers experience one of the most emotionally vulnerable times of their lives following a cancer diagnosis. To provide optimal care, medical oncologists need to demonstrate compassion, empathy, and clear and effective communication skills. 

Lead and work in a multidisciplinary team. Medical oncology care is multidisciplinary. Medical oncologists lead multidisciplinary teams, coordinating the contributions of different healthcare professionals to provide holistic care. 

Research skills. Medical oncologists contribute to body of cancer research (therapeutics, biology, epidemiology, and clinical outcomes research). Cancer research is constantly evolving; consequently, medical oncologists must stay on top of current research and studies to be effective in their positions. This often involves attending medical conferences, critically appraising research from medical journals, and going to training workshops to stay informed on the most recent cancer treatments and methods. Medical oncologists are also commonly involved in the conduct of clinical trials and other research within established ethical frameworks.

Teaching. Medical oncology roles include teaching responsibilities, educating patients about their conditions, and training junior doctors, medical students, and allied healthcare professionals. 

Last modified: Wednesday, 20 August 2025, 3:46 PM