St. Joseph's is proud to have an excellent staff of medical oncologists (cancer specialists). Board-certified oncology physicians, who participate in clinical research and new technology development manage chemotherapy and direct the medical care of the cancer patient. The medical oncologists sit on our Oncology Committee to help develop services and make decisions about future services that our patients may need. In addition, our medical oncologists participate in our many multidisciplinary tumor boards to develop individual treatment plans for newly diagnosed patients as well as for patients who are facing a need for new treatment protocols (clinical trials).

As well, medical oncologists play a major role in symptom management and coordination of services. Medical oncologists have expertise in pain management, fatigue management, and oncology emergencies. While many cancer issues can now be managed in the outpatient setting, medical oncologists also work closely with inpatient staff to manage acute inpatient needs.

St. Joseph's has an inpatient medical oncology unit to manage patients needing acute care. The oncology nursing and support staff are specially trained to manage the unique needs of cancer patients. The inpatient staff routinely assesses issues such as pain management, management of side effects of chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy, as well as the psychosocial needs of patients.