Trust your child’s care and treatment to the compassionate, expert team of board-certified pediatric oncologists and specially trained staff at University Health.
Team Approach to Pediatric Cancer Care
Your child, adolescent or young adult will benefit from our multidisciplinary approach to care. Each patient has a group of skilled, experienced cancer doctors and other specialists working together to discuss their treatment regularly. The result is the best possible care and treatment for your child.
Your Child’s Care Team
You’ll see physicians from UT Health San Antonio and highly skilled staff at University Health. Our team knows how cancer affects children and understands their unique needs.
Lean on us through each stage of your child’s cancer journey. Your care team may include the following providers.
Pediatric Oncologists
These are cancer doctors with special training to care for children and teens with cancer. Your oncology specialist knows how to diagnose and treat complex and rare cancers. We have neuro-oncologists (brain and spinal cord specialists) and ortho-oncologists (bone cancer doctors).
Your pediatric oncologist is also trained to use chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy to treat cancer.
Radiation Oncologists
These doctors prescribe high-energy radiation therapies to shrink and kill tumors in children, teens and young adults.
Surgeons
Specialized pediatric surgeons perform precise operations to remove tumors and tissue to diagnose or treat cancer.
Oncology Nurse Practitioners
Our oncology nurse practitioners have advanced degrees and special training to care for cancer patients. They work closely with pediatric cancer doctors and surgeons to assist with cancer care and treatments.
Oncology Nurses
Oncology registered nurses have extra training to provide care for children, adolescents and young adults with cancer. They offer care in the hospital and clinics, administer therapies, monitor side effects and explain what to expect.
Psychologists
Knowledgeable, empathetic psychologists with pediatric training provide emotional support and counseling for your child and family throughout the cancer journey.
Social Workers
Social workers offer age-appropriate support, resources and information for your child and family about:
- Community services
- Financial assistance
- Home health needs
- Palliative care
- School and education needs
- Support groups
- Transportation to appointments
Child Life Specialists
Child Life specialists help young patients understand and cope with their cancer diagnosis and treatment. Your Child Life specialist will:
- Explain upcoming procedures
- Provide time for play
- Help kids express feelings and concerns about medical care
- Celebrate treatment milestones
Supportive Care and Services Team
Get individualized services and support from other health care staff for your child’s specific needs, such as: