Parents do not have the luxury of time in choosing a pediatric oncologist. At diagnosis, the family is usually sent to the nearest children’s hospital. The child will be assigned a pediatric oncologist (attending) or fellow who is in charge of all treatment. Often the assigned oncologist is a good match, and the family finds the doctor to be competent, caring, and easy to communicate with. If the medical facility allows you to choose your child’s oncologist, here are several traits to look for:

•  Board certified in the field of pediatric oncology

•  Establishes good rapport with your child

•  Communicates clearly and compassionately

•  Performs procedures skillfully

•  Answers all questions

•  Consults with other doctors on complex problems

•  Uses language that is easy to understand

•  Makes the results of all tests available

•  Acknowledges parents’ right to make decisions

•  Respects parents’ values

•  Able to deliver the truth with hope

If you don’t develop a good rapport with the oncologist assigned to your child, you can ask to be assigned to a different oncologist you may have met on rounds or during clinic visits. Most parent requests are accommodated, as hospitals realize the importance of good communication between family members and doctors. Your child will, however, still be seen by several different doctors, because most institutions have rotating doctors on call.