Navigating a brain tumor diagnosis involves not only understanding your condition but also assembling and communicating with a trusted medical team. From neuro-oncologists to social workers, each person on your team plays a vital role in your care. Knowing who they are and how to talk with them can help you make informed decisions and feel more empowered on your journey.

Who’s On Your Medical Team?

You may interact with many healthcare professionals throughout your care. Here are some of the key members you might encounter:

  • Neuro-oncologist: A doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancers of the brain and spine.

  • Neurologist: A doctor who treats disorders of the nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord.

  • Neurosurgeon: A surgeon who operates on the brain or spine, often for tumor removal or biopsies.

  • Radiation Oncologist: A doctor who administers radiation therapy to shrink or control tumors.

  • Neuropathologist: A specialist who examines brain tissue under a microscope to determine the type and grade of a tumor.

  • Psychologists: Professionals who provide emotional and mental health support.

  • Social Workers: Specialists who help you and your family manage the financial, emotional, and logistical impacts of a brain tumor diagnosis.

  • Nurses and Nurse Practitioners: Nurses are often the backbone of care coordination, managing follow-ups, symptom tracking, and ensuring your treatment plan stays on course.

Find more information and full descriptions of these roles in our downloadable Patient Resource Guide.

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Doctor

Choosing the right doctor is a personal and important decision. It’s okay—and encouraged—to ask questions before deciding on a treatment team. Here are some useful questions to help guide that conversation:

About Their Background

  • How many years have you been practicing?

  • What is your medical specialty?

  • Have you completed a fellowship in neuro-oncology or another brain cancer-related field?

  • Are you board-certified? Do you hold any additional certifications?

About Their Experience with Brain Tumors

  • How many patients with brain tumors have you treated?

  • How many patients have you treated with my specific diagnosis?

  • What is your approach to treating my type of brain tumor?

Use these questions as a checklist during appointments or consultations.

Tips for Communicating With Your Medical Team

Clear communication with your healthcare team can greatly enhance your care. Here are some ways to ensure you’re heard and supported:

  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you don’t understand something, ask your doctor to explain it again in simpler terms.

  • Bring a support person. A family member or friend can take notes, help you remember information, and provide emotional support.

  • Take notes. Whether it’s you or someone with you, writing things down can help you recall details later.

  • Ask for written instructions. This is especially helpful when there are complex treatment plans or medication schedules.

  • Request printed materials. Ask if your doctor has brochures or resources about your diagnosis and treatment options.

  • Know who to contact. Ask your doctor or nurse who you can reach out to with follow-up questions and what the best communication method is (phone, email, patient portal).

  • Assign a point person. Decide whether you want to handle communication with your doctor directly or designate a family member to help.

Seeking a Second Opinion

Getting a second opinion can provide peace of mind and a broader understanding of your diagnosis and treatment options. Many patients seek additional medical perspectives before selecting their care team or starting treatment.

Head for the Cure and Brains for the Cure are honored to collaborate with many of the nation’s top brain tumor centers, including members of the Brain Tumor Trials Collaborative—a network of doctors who have made long-term commitments to advancing treatment and care for brain tumor patients.

Second opinions are not a sign of distrust—they’re a sign of self-advocacy.

Next Steps

  •  Download and print the Patient Resource Guide to bring to your next appointment.

  •  Highlight the questions and topics that matter most to you.

  •  Begin building a medical team that supports your health and your voice.

Remember: You are the most important advocate on your medical journey. The more informed and prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel in your care.


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