Mesothelioma Doctors

Top Mesothelioma Doctors & Specialists

Top doctors have spent years treating mesothelioma cancer. We use their experience to help you pick the best specialist. These experts offer treatments based on your diagnosis.

Family doctors or general oncologists may never encounter asbestos-related cancers, which can add stress to an already difficult time as you look for expert answers and a treatment plan tailored to your needs. We want to ensure you have access to all the best resources and support you need to get through this challenging time.

The Mesothelioma Center can connect you with over 500 specialists. All are board-certified, compassionate and backed by strong teams. We’ve linked patients and families to top resources for over a decade.

Choosing a Doctor

Choose a mesothelioma doctor based on experience, hospital ties and availability. It’s also crucial for everyone to feel comfortable and supported.

It’s never too early to find a mesothelioma doctor. Even if you’re unsure about asbestos exposure or early symptoms, our Patient Advocates can help. They will connect you with top specialists. These doctors can confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and begin treatment planning.

What to Look for in a Mesothelioma Doctor

How do you determine what’s most important in a mesothelioma doctor? Everyone’s priorities are different. The following aspects are worth considering when choosing a mesothelioma doctor.

• Access to Clinical Trials:  Leading mesothelioma doctors often combine research with standard care. They should be aware of new or experimental treatments for your condition. Clinical trials provide more options for effective therapies.
• Availability: Picking a mesothelioma doctor also means finding one who can start treatment quickly. Your doctor should be available when you need them. So ask about virtual visits, phone calls and emergency support.
• Experience and Expertise: A specialist has spent years learning about this rare cancer. This gives them an advantage over general oncologists. The Mesothelioma Center only highlights renowned specialists who have excelled in their field.
• Hospital Affiliations: A top specialist should have access to the best resources. Ask your doctor whether they have privileges at the cancer center you prefer. Consider the staff, equipment and clinical trials available. You should also feel safe and welcome at each visit.
• Insurance Coverage: Experts in mesothelioma often take Medicare and most private insurances. Patient Advocates can confirm if your provider covers your chosen doctor and treatment center.
• Support Staff: Caregivers realize mesothelioma treatment needs a team. Choosing a doctor means you also get their team. This team should have a licensed dietitian, a physical therapist and other experts.

We understand that insurance and good local care are vital. Our network of doctors is here for patients and caregivers. Choosing a trusted specialist and team brings comfort and peace of mind.

If you’ve been exposed to asbestos, inform your doctor. Then, think about regular screenings for mesothelioma. Early detection of mesothelioma or lung cancer can open up more treatment options.

Types of Mesothelioma Specialists

Specialists for mesothelioma include oncologists, surgeons, pulmonologists and pathologists. Each one is an expert in their field. They work together to create the best treatment plans for patients.

Medical Oncologist

A medical oncologist focuses on treatments like chemotherapy. Often, they work in research centers across the country.

Radiation Oncologists and Radiologists

A radiation oncologist creates a radiation therapy plan. They also decide how to deliver the radiation and its dosage.

Thoracic and General Surgeons

A thoracic surgeon operates on the chest. A skilled surgeon reduces tumor mass to improve symptoms or extend life expectancy. They specialize in the lungs, heart, esophagus and diaphragm.

Pulmonologist

A pulmonologist is an expert in lung disease. They assist in the diagnosis and treatment of pleural patients. They also prescribe breathing exercises to make up for lost lung function.

Pathologist

A pathologist looks at biopsy samples under a microscope. They identify tumor cells to check for mesothelioma or other cancers. This process is key in diagnosing mesothelioma.

Palliative Care Specialist

A palliative care specialist helps cancer patients with symptoms, manages cancer pain, and manages treatment side effects, improving quality of life.

Michael Cole, a survivor of pleural mesothelioma, underscores the need for trust in picking a doctor. He says, “We need all the positive support we can get, especially from our doctor,” he said. “Trust comes from good communication and a willingness to place our confidence in them to do their job.”

Top Pleural Mesothelioma Doctors

The best pleural mesothelioma doctors in the U.S. stand out for their leadership, teamwork, experience and knowledge. Some are oncologists who use chemotherapy for chest tumors. Others are thoracic surgeons who remove tumors from the pleura or lungs.

Top Pleural Mesothelioma Doctors in the US

• Dr. Andrea Wolf: Thoracic surgeon and director of the New York Mesothelioma Program at Mount Sinai in New York City.
• Dr. Jeffrey Velotta: Thoracic surgeon and researcher at Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center in California.
• Dr. Marcelo DaSilva: Chief of thoracic surgery and medical director at AdventHealth Cancer Institute in Orlando, Florida.
• Dr. Jacques Fontaine: Thoracic surgeon and director of the Mesothelioma Research and Treatment Center at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida.
• Dr. Anne Tsao: Medical oncologist, director of the Mesothelioma Program and Clinical Research Committee chair at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Florida.

Pleural mesothelioma doctors diagnose and treat the cancer’s pleural form, which forms on the outer lung lining. These doctors are proven experts in their field and handle the most challenging mesothelioma cases daily.

Top Peritoneal Mesothelioma Doctors

The nation’s top doctors for peritoneal mesothelioma specialize in abdominal cancers. Their teams are the most skilled and informed in this area.

Oncologists often use chemotherapy to treat tumors in the abdomen. Surgeons perform cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemo. They use these to remove tumors from the peritoneal lining.

Top Peritoneal Mesothelioma Doctors in the US

• Dr. W. Charles Conway: Director of surgical oncology at the Ridley-Tree Cancer Center in Santa Barbara, California. He specializes in cytoreductive and robotic surgery.
• Dr. Mecker Moller: A surgical oncologist and a surgery professor at the University of Chicago. She performed South Florida’s first HIPEC procedure.
• Dr. Daniel M. Labow: Works at Nuvance Health Praxair Cancer Center in Danbury, Connecticut. He founded the HIPEC program at Mount Sinai Medical Center.
• Dr. J.F. Pingpank, Jr.: A UPMC Hillman Cancer Center surgical oncologist. And an associate professor of surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.
• Dr. Sophie Dessureault: A surgical oncologist at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa. He specializes in HIPEC and has over 20 years of experience.

Peritoneal mesothelioma doctors specialize in the abdominal form of this cancer, which forms on the peritoneum, the protective lining in the abdomen. They treat tumors that affect digestion and metabolism. Surgery with heated chemotherapy, or HIPEC, can improve the prognosis for peritoneal patients.

Carla Fasolo

Verified Asbestos.com Survivor

Connect with a Mesothelioma Doctor: Testimonial

“You want a specialist who knows what they’re dealing with. That’s how I picked my doctor, and my patient advocate helped me with that.”

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Preparing for Your First Visit

Bring your medical documents and a list of questions, and be ready to communicate. The first appointment can be overwhelming. But a little preparation can help reduce your stress. By the end of the visit, you’ll have a plan and feel more prepared to begin treatment.

How to Prepare for Your Initial Visit

1. Be Honest and Open: Answer the doctor’s questions truthfully. Ask any questions and share your concerns. Expect the doctor to listen and show empathy.
2. Bring a List of Medications: List all drugs and supplements you take, with dosages. Also, include any over-the-counter medications.
3. Bring Someone With You: A family member or friend can take notes and ask questions. They can also provide support. You might forget some questions.
4. Organize Your Medical Records: Bring all cancer-related records, including test results, biopsy reports, and imaging studies. Organize them by date or type for easy reference.
5. Share Your Medical History: Include past surgeries, treatments, and illnesses. Note any jobs or asbestos exposure.
6. Use a Notebook and Pen: Take notes during the appointment to remember the discussion. If needed, ask the doctor to repeat or clarify anything.
7. Write Down Your Questions: Before the appointment, make a list of questions. Ask family or friends for more questions to consider.

Organize your notes and remember your doctor will want to establish a new baseline. “The whole point is to have a fresh set of eyes with some expertise,” explains thoracic surgeon Dr. Andrea Wolf.

Questions to Ask Your Mesothelioma Doctor

The more information you have, the better you can make informed decisions. Always ask your doctor to explain anything you don’t understand.

Suggested Questions for Your Visit

• What is the stage and location of my mesothelioma?
• What are my treatment options and their benefits and risks?
• How often will I need to come in for follow-up appointments and scans?
• What is the expected timeline for treatment, and when will I know if it’s working?

Remember, the first appointment is just the beginning. You don’t have to make any decisions that day. Your doctor will guide you through starting treatment.

Common Questions About Mesothelioma Doctors

What is the difference between a mesothelioma specialist and other oncologists?

Mesothelioma doctors spend years specializing in diagnosing and treating this rare cancer. A specialist can access the latest treatment methods. They can also offer clinical trials that may improve life expectancy. General oncologists may never encounter mesothelioma.

How important is the cancer center or hospital where my doctor works?

A top hospital has the needed resources and staff to support your doctor. It should also have a good reputation and a history of successfully treating mesothelioma.

What types of doctors can provide a second opinion on a mesothelioma diagnosis?

A mesothelioma specialist, such as an oncologist, surgeon, or radiologist, can offer a second opinion on your diagnosis. They might suggest treatments that other doctors miss. Getting a second opinion can also increase your chances of joining a clinical trial.

Can mesothelioma specialists recommend clinical trials?

Yes. A mesothelioma specialist is the best source for learning about a clinical trial. Your specialist will tell you about open clinical trials for your diagnosis. Some are only for patients who have yet to receive treatment. Some are for those who have run out of other treatment options. Sometimes you may need to travel to take part in a clinical trial.

How do mesothelioma doctors determine the right treatment plan for me?

A mesothelioma doctor considers your treatment based on your cancer. They’ll note cancer progression, medical and treatment history and tumor cell type. They’ll also deliberate on the best approach with other mesothelioma experts.

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