A Gynecologic Oncologist is an Obstetrician/Gynecologist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of women with cancer of the reproductive organs.

Specifically, the gynecologic oncologist treats cancer of the ovary, endometrium, uterus, cervix, vagina, vulva and trophoblastic disease. In order to become a Gynecologic Oncologist in the United States, a physician must first complete an approved, 4-year residency program in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Following this, he/she must complete a 3-4 year clinical fellowship in Gynecologic Oncology. Presently, there are 32 fellowship training programs approved by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inc (ABOG). The additional training during fellowship provides the skills needed for optimal care of women with a gynecologic cancer.

Surgical skills that are provided during fellowship include: radical pelvic surgery, gastrointestinal surgery, and urologic surgery. Additionally, fellowship provides training in administration of intravenous, intraperitoneal and oral chemotherapy and the placement of brachytherapy devices for radiotherapy. Formal coursework is required in graduate-level statistics and another area of the trainee’s choosing. After satisfactorily completing the fellowship, the gynecologic oncologist may practice his/her specialty. This leads to "board certification" by ABOG. This involves a written and an oral examination.

Gynecologic oncologists are trained in providing comprehensive, multi-disciplinary care. Gynecologic oncologists are unique among surgical oncologists in this regard. They are skilled surgical oncologists who also are trained in administering chemotherapy. Therefore, gynecologic oncologists are able to provide an outstanding degree of continuity of care for their patients.

The gynecologic oncologist is prepared to provide important supportive services
such as: pain management, management of medical or surgical complications from treatment, complications of the cancer, and hospice referral. Again, this benefits the patient.