Which Health Professionals Will I See for Bowel Cancer?

Bowel cancer care often involves a team of health professionals. Different people may help with diagnosis, treatment, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stoma care, diet, emotional support and recovery.

This article is for general information only. Your own care team may be different depending on your diagnosis, hospital and treatment plan.

General Practitioner or Primary Care Doctor

A general practitioner or primary care doctor may be the first person you speak to about symptoms. They may examine you, order initial tests or refer you to a specialist.

Gastroenterologist

A gastroenterologist is a doctor who specializes in the digestive system. They may perform colonoscopy, investigate bowel symptoms and help diagnose bowel conditions.

For related testing information, read our Colonoscopy and Biopsy for Bowel Cancer guide.

Colorectal Surgeon

A colorectal surgeon specializes in surgery for the colon, rectum and anus. They may discuss operations, stoma risk, recovery and surgical side effects.

You may also read our Surgery for Cancer in the Colon and Surgery for Cancer in the Rectum articles.

Medical Oncologist

A medical oncologist specializes in cancer medicines such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy. They may explain drug treatment options, side effects and monitoring.

For more, visit our Chemotherapy for Bowel Cancer article.

Radiation Oncologist

A radiation oncologist specializes in radiation therapy. They may be involved more often in rectal cancer treatment or palliative symptom control.

Read our Radiation Therapy for Bowel Cancer guide.

Specialist Nurses and Stoma Nurses

Specialist nurses may help with education, treatment support, side effects and practical questions. A stoma nurse helps people who may need or already have a stoma.

For stoma support, read our Support for People With a Stoma article.

Dietitians, Counsellors and Social Workers

A dietitian can help with eating problems, weight changes and bowel symptoms. Counsellors may support emotional wellbeing. Social workers may help with practical, financial or family concerns.

Final Thoughts

Bowel cancer care is often team-based. Ask who your main contact is, who to call with urgent concerns and how each professional supports your care.