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Mesothelioma Doctors

Mesothelioma doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating patients diagnosed with this rare asbestos-related cancer. These doctors may include medical oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists, and other cancer specialists. Learn why you should see a mesothelioma specialist and how our team can help you find doctors in your area for treatment.

Medically reviewed by: Mark Levin, MD

Last updated:

Why Do I Need to Find a Mesothelioma Doctor?

Finding a physician who focuses on mesothelioma is the best way to increase your life expectancy after a diagnosis. While there are thousands of oncologists (cancer doctors), not all of them have in-depth knowledge of malignant mesothelioma and other asbestos-related cancers.

“Unless you see a mesothelioma specialist, most doctors have a noticeably limited education about this cancer.”

- Quote from Jill Litton, 14+ year mesothelioma survivor

Since mesothelioma is such a rare cancer, it can be challenging to diagnose. Getting a second opinion from a mesothelioma specialist can help confirm if your diagnosis was accurate and rule out a potential misdiagnosis.

Mesothelioma specialists can also provide a better understanding of your treatment options and help you access the latest advancements in mesothelioma care.

Whether you’re searching for a doctor who treats mesothelioma or you’re still trying to confirm a diagnosis, Mesothelioma Hope can help. Start by using our Free Doctor Match to connect with mesothelioma specialists near you.

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Pleural Mesothelioma Doctors

Pleural mesothelioma doctors treat patients whose cancer forms in the lining of the lungs (pleura). Many of these doctors are thoracic surgeons, meaning they specialize in procedures involving the chest and lungs.

A few of the country’s top-ranked pleural mesothelioma doctors are listed below. Our nurses and Patient Advocates can provide a complete list of pleural specialists in your area and help you find the right fit — call (866) 608-8933 to speak with them now.

Dr. Raja Flores

Dr. Raja Flores

25+ years of experience

Chairman of the Department of Thoracic Surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York

Dr. Robert Cameron

Dr. Robert Cameron

20+ years of experience

Chief of Thoracic Surgery at West Los Angeles VA Medical Center

Dr. Raphael Bueno

Dr. Raphael Bueno

20+ years of experience

Director of the International Mesothelioma Program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston

Dr. Taylor Ripley

Dr. Taylor Ripley

15+ years of experience

Director of the Mesothelioma Treatment Center at Baylor College of Medicine’s Lung Institute in Houston

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Doctors

Peritoneal mesothelioma specialists help patients who’ve been diagnosed with cancer in the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneum).

Some well-known peritoneal mesothelioma doctors include:

Dr. James Pingpank

Dr. James Pingpank

20+ years of experience

Surgical oncologist at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC)

Dr. Hedy Lee Kindler

Dr. Hedy Lee Kindler

25+ years of experience

Director of the Mesothelioma Program at University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center

Dr. Richard Alexander

Dr. Richard Alexander

40+ years of experience

Chief Surgical Officer at Rutgers Cancer Institute in New Brunswick, NJ

Dr. Mecker Möller

Dr. Mecker Möller

15+ years of experience

Director of the Regional Therapies (HIPEC) Program at University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center

We can help find the right peritoneal mesothelioma specialist. Try our Free Doctor Match today — it only takes a minute to get started.

Doctors Who Treat Rarer Types of Mesothelioma

The vast majority of mesothelioma cases are pleural or peritoneal. However, there are other rare forms of the disease, including pericardial mesothelioma (which forms in the heart lining) and testicular mesothelioma (which forms in the testicle lining).

Although pericardial and testicular mesothelioma aren’t common, there are doctors who may be able to treat these patients or enroll them in clinical trials.

Mesothelioma Doctors Video Thumbnail

Registered Nurse Amy Fair discusses the types of doctors you need on your team when being diagnosed and treated for mesothelioma. View Transcript.

Duration: 1 min 01 sec

Who should be on my medical team for treatment?

The health professionals that should be on your team starts with your primary medical doctor because you may have other comorbidities or things your taking medication for or diseases. Normally that referral goes into a pulmonologist or a gastroenterologist depending on what type of mesothelioma you have, whether it be pleural or peritoneal. That will normally proceed into a surgical component, surgeon, and then lead into an oncology or radiology component. It’s also very important that you have a nutritionist on this team. Many facilities have what they call a tumor board that comprises these disciplines together. The continuity of care of phenomenal with a tumor board.

Factors for Choosing a Mesothelioma Specialist

Selecting a doctor for your treatment is an important decision. Read about some factors you should consider below.

Experience Treating Mesothelioma Patients

Choosing a physician with an extensive history of treating mesothelioma cancer can play a large role in improving your overall health outlook (prognosis).

Ask your doctor if they can tell you about other patients they’ve helped who have a diagnosis similar to yours.

“If your doctor is not a professional and has not lived it and breathed it, get another oncologist. You need someone experienced — someone who’s going to fight for you and with you.”

- Quote from Mary Jane Williams, 15-year mesothelioma survivor

Location and Transportation Costs

Getting mesothelioma treatment in your state can make the process easier and more convenient while keeping your out-of-pocket costs more manageable.

If you can’t find a mesothelioma specialist close to home, you’ll have to factor in transportation costs, potential hotel stays, and additional meal expenses. All of these costs can add up over time if you need long-term treatment.

Our team can check if you’re eligible for financial assistance to help pay for treatment-related expenses — call (866) 608-8933 now to speak with us.

Availability

Because mesothelioma spreads quickly, you need to get a diagnosis and start treatment as soon as possible. You should choose a doctor who can provide prompt access to diagnostic tests, oncology services, and treatment planning.

If flexibility is important to you, ask the doctor whether they offer virtual visits or phone consultations if you have questions or concerns before your next in-person appointment.

Treatment Specialties

Mesothelioma doctors provide different treatments depending on their background and training.

Common mesothelioma treatment options include:

  • Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells in the affected area
  • Immunotherapy to help the immune system identify and attack cancer cells
  • Radiation therapy to kill cancer cells in a particular area of the body
  • Surgery to remove tumors or relieve painful symptoms

Mesothelioma specialists create custom treatment plans based on each patient’s age, overall health, type of mesothelioma, and the stage of their cancer (how far it’s spread).

Take the first step toward getting your own personalized treatment plan: Find a mesothelioma doctor near you today.

Access to Clinical Trials

Check if a doctor you’re considering has access to mesothelioma clinical trials and newer treatments that may not be available through a general oncologist.

Clinical trials allow patients to potentially receive cutting-edge therapies and treatments while contributing to cancer research.

By seeing a mesothelioma doctor who’s involved in clinical research, you’ll have a chance to benefit from the latest medical advances, which can potentially improve your life expectancy.

How Should I Prepare for My First Appointment?

Planning ahead is important to get the most out of your initial visit with a mesothelioma doctor. You may receive a lot of information at once, so it’s a good idea to bring a family member or friend who can take notes.

Here are some other tips to help prepare for your first appointment:

  • Collect any records of work history or suspected asbestos exposure.
  • Write down your mesothelioma symptoms and when they started.
  • Request any past medical records, scans, or X-rays.
  • Bring a list of questions to ask your mesothelioma doctor.

We’ve compiled a list of 14 questions to ask that can help you make informed decisions about your treatment. Download our Free Checklist now so you’ll have it ready for your first doctor’s visit.

14 Questions to Ask Your Doctor packet
Free Download: 14 Questions to Ask Your Doctor
  • Preparing for treatment
  • Finding clinical trials
  • Getting a second opinion

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Find the Best Doctors for Mesothelioma in Your Area

A mesothelioma diagnosis can be overwhelming and scary, but it’s incredibly important to stay hopeful.

The first step in fighting this disease is to find a trusted mesothelioma doctor with the experience and resources to help improve your health and quality of life.

Mesothelioma Hope is standing by to help you find local specialists who can provide you with the best treatment. Connect with a Patient Advocate now at (866) 608-8933 or get started with our Free Mesothelioma Doctor Match.

Disclaimer

Mesothelioma Hope has no affiliation with and is not endorsed or sponsored by any of the doctors listed above. The contact information above is listed for informational purposes only. You have the right to contact these mesothelioma specialists directly.

Mesothelioma Specialists FAQs

Who diagnoses mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma doctors are best equipped to diagnose this cancer. These doctors work with pathologists and other specialists to ensure you get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for your type of mesothelioma.

Since mesothelioma cancer is often misdiagnosed, it’s crucial to see a specialist for a diagnosis or second opinion.

What should I do if I've been diagnosed with mesothelioma?

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you should find a specialist who has expertise in treating this rare cancer.

Mesothelioma doctors provide specialized care that can make a key difference in your treatment options and survival.

How do I find a mesothelioma specialist near me?

The best way to find a mesothelioma doctor near you is to speak with a medical advocate who is familiar with doctors in the area. Mesothelioma Hope has long-established relationships with mesothelioma doctors and oncology programs across the country.

Our team of nurses and Patient Advocates are passionate about connecting patients with the right doctor based on their experience, specialty, and approach to treatment.

Fill out our contact form or speak to a Patient Advocate now at (866) 608-8933.

Should I get a second opinion from a mesothelioma doctor?

If you believe you have been misdiagnosed or want another expert’s input, you should get a second opinion from a mesothelioma doctor.

A mesothelioma specialist can review your medical records, perform additional imaging scans and biopsies, and either confirm or update your diagnosis.

The process of getting a second opinion could end up leading you to more effective treatments or an entirely new treatment plan altogether.

What is the best hospital for mesothelioma?

Since each patient is different, there isn’t a single “best” hospital for mesothelioma. However, there are several oncology centers that have become well-known for their expertise in treating this type of cancer.

Some top mesothelioma cancer centers include:

  • Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston
  • MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston
  • Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa
  • Mount Sinai Health System in New York
  • UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles

These hospitals have doctors and specialists who can provide advanced treatment options. Many of them also conduct clinical trials on site as part of their oncology program.

For help finding a mesothelioma hospital near you, call our Patient Advocates today at (866) 608-8933.

Dr. Mark LevinReviewed by:Mark Levin, MD

Certified Oncologist and Hematologist

  • Fact-Checked
  • Editor

Mark Levin, MD, has over 30 years of experience in academic and community hematology and oncology. In addition to serving as Chief or Director at four different teaching institutions throughout his life, he is still a practicing clinician, has taught and designed formal education programs, and has authored numerous publications in various fields related to hematology and oncology.

Dr. Mark Levin is an independently paid medical reviewer.

  • Board Certified Oncologist
  • 30+ Years Experience
  • Published Medical Author
Jenna TozziWritten by:

Director of Patient Advocacy

Jenna Tozzi, RN, is the Director of Patient Advocacy at Mesothelioma Hope. With more than 15 years of experience as an adult and pediatric oncology nurse navigator, Jenna provides exceptional guidance and support to mesothelioma patients and their loved ones. Jenna has been featured in Oncology Nursing News and is a member of the Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators & the American Nurses Association.

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References
  1. American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Treating Malignant Mesothelioma. Retrieved January 24, 2024, from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/malignant-mesothelioma/treating.html

  2. Baylor College of Medicine. (n.d.) Dr. David J. Sugarbaker, MD. Retrieved January 24, 2024, from https://www.bcm.edu/departments/surgery/meet-our-team/history-of-leadership/david-j-sugarbaker-m-d

  3. Darlison, L., Taylor, B., Harrison, M., Gardiner, C., & Ejegi-Memeh, S. (2021). Understanding the palliative care needs and experiences of people with mesothelioma and their family carers: An integrative systematic review. Retrieved January 24, 2024, from https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/02692163211007379

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How We Can Help

Mesothelioma Hope is passionate about helping patients and families affected by this aggressive cancer. A mesothelioma diagnosis can be scary and isolating, but we’re here for you at every step. Hope is only a phone call away.

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Medical Guidance
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Financial Assistance
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