When managing ovarian cancer, the right healthcare team can make all the difference. A good ovarian cancer specialist doesn’t just look good on paper. You need one who makes you feel comfortable, too.

And remember, it’s okay to meet with multiple specialists before you decide who you want to treat you. Here are some tips to help you on your search.

One of the easiest ways to find ovarian cancer specialists is by talking to other people. Your family members and friends may be able to share their experiences (good or bad) with providers and facilities.

If you don’t know anyone who has had ovarian cancer, your care team can be a great resource. Ask your primary care provider or your gynecologist if they can suggest a specialist or treatment center. Be sure to ask why they’re making the recommendation so you understand the reasons behind their referral.

If possible, search for a gynecologic oncologist. These doctors specialize in gynecologic cancers of the female reproductive system, including ovarian cancer.

Gynecologic oncologists are uniquely qualified to perform surgery, administer chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, and oversee your care. They have extensive training that leads to better real-world outcomes for people with ovarian cancer.

For instance, studies show that gynecologic oncologists are five times more likely to successfully remove all the ovarian tumors during surgery (compared to a general surgeon). Their surgeries have been associated with up to 50 percent higher survival rates compared to those of less experienced surgeons.

The Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance has a search tool to help you find a gynecologic oncologist in your area.

Even within gynecologic oncology, some doctors see more ovarian cancer cases than others. Experience matters because ovarian cancer treatment can be highly specialized.

You can let your providers know that you’re interviewing a few specialists before making a decision. Writing down your questions before you meet with them can help you stay on track.

You may want to ask questions such as:

• How many people with ovarian cancer do you treat each year?
• How often do you perform ovarian cancer surgery?
• Do you treat all stages of ovarian cancer?
• Do you participate in clinical trials or research?

A specialist who regularly treats ovarian cancer may be more familiar with the latest treatment approaches, surgical techniques, and new therapies.

Ovarian cancer care can get expensive. While cost shouldn’t be the only factor in your choice of providers, it’s still important.

You should find out which providers are considered in-network under your insurance plan. Seeing in-network providers can help keep your expenses down.

This information is available on your health insurance portal. You can also call the number on the back of your insurance card to speak directly with a representative for help.

It’s also a good idea to develop a financial plan to support your cancer care. Along with insurance, this can include fundraising campaigns and financial assistance programs available through the hospital or treatment center.

Online reviews can provide insight into other people’s experiences. You may read comments about dealing with the billing department, appointment wait times, and the healthcare provider’s demeanor.

Reviews may reflect issues unrelated to medical skill, like frustrations with parking or scheduling. In some cases, a negative review won’t apply to you or your situation.

Instead of focusing only on star ratings, look for patterns in people’s comments about communication, professionalism, and office organization.

Choosing an ovarian cancer specialist is a personal decision. You may meet with several doctors before finding someone who feels like the right fit.

If you see negative reviews, you can ask the provider or the medical staff about them. They may have a simple explanation (such as a recent change in management) that can help you put past reviews into context.

Finding a good specialist is one piece of the puzzle. You should also consider the facility where they practice.

Large academic cancer centers offer certain benefits. They’re more likely to have clinical trials, which can give you access to new treatment options and medical services.

With ovarian cancer, you may need a range of treatments and providers. Along with your oncologist, you may need a social worker, palliative care providers, nutrition counseling, and other services. Finding all of these care team members under one roof at a large treatment center may help simplify your care.

However, smaller community care centers have their own perks. Some studies suggest that community practices provide more personalized care. If a community center is closer to your home, it can help cut down on travel time and expenses. As a result, you may find it easier to access the care you need.

Ultimately, the decision about where to go and who to see for your ovarian cancer care is highly personal. You have to feel right about the medical facility where you’ll be spending a good amount of time as you proceed with treatment.

The truth is, you might not really know how you feel about your specialist until they actually start working with you. You can still make judgments about how it’s going along the way.

After medical expertise, communication is essential for a good experience with your healthcare provider. You deserve a specialist who listens carefully, answers questions clearly, and treats you with respect.

Consider how you feel during appointments. Ask yourself:

• Does the doctor explain things in ways I understand?
• Do they answer questions thoroughly?
• Do they rush through appointments?
• Do I feel heard and supported?
• Are they open to discussing my concerns and preferences?

Cancer treatment can involve difficult decisions and emotional stress. A compassionate provider can help protect your quality of life through the process.

If your first meeting with a specialist didn’t go well, it’s OK to keep looking. Sometimes meeting with multiple doctors is the best way to find the right fit.

Getting a second opinion is very common after an ovarian cancer diagnosis. In fact, many doctors encourage it. Even if you don’t switch providers, a second opinion can give you peace of mind before moving forward with treatment decisions.

A second opinion can help confirm the diagnosis, the stage of treatment, or the recommended treatment plan. No provider should make you feel bad for seeking a second opinion at any point in your journey.

You may especially want a second opinion if:

• You were diagnosed by a nonspecialist.
• You have recurrent ovarian cancer.
• You’re told you should have surgery.
• You were told you’re not a good candidate for surgery.
• You want to explore clinical trials or other treatment options.

Seeking a second opinion doesn’t mean you distrust your doctor. It’s simply a way to gather more information and make informed decisions.

Some people continue care with the second doctor, while others return to their original team feeling more confident. If you choose to change providers, thank your original provider and briefly explain your reason if you think it could be helpful for them to know.

Join the Conversation

On MyOvarianCancerTeam, people share their experiences with ovarian cancer, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

What type of ovarian cancer specialists have you seen? Let others know in the comments below.