Which specialist performs HER2-targeted therapy?

Short answer
A medical oncologist prescribes and monitors HER2-targeted therapy, usually with support from nurses, pharmacists and other members of the cancer team.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Responsible specialty
- Medical oncology
- Treatment decision
- Based on HER2 testing and the full clinical picture
- Monitoring
- Treatment effects and any medicine-specific checks
What this treatment involves
HER2-targeted therapy is considered when testing shows that a tumour has relevant HER2 features. The medical oncologist reviews the pathology report, cancer type, stage, previous treatment and general health before recommending a treatment plan. Depending on the medicine, treatment may be given by infusion, injection or another route.
The oncology team watches for treatment effects and checks whether the therapy remains appropriate. Some patients need heart assessment or other monitoring during care, particularly when the chosen medicine can affect heart function. Your team will explain the checks that apply to your treatment.
Preparing for treatment
Bring your pathology and imaging reports if they were completed elsewhere, and tell the oncologist about heart conditions, previous cancer medicines, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and all medicines or supplements you use. Ask how treatment is scheduled, how monitoring is arranged and whom to call between visits.
When to seek help
Contact your cancer team promptly for fever, chills, new breathlessness, chest discomfort, fainting, facial swelling or a rapidly spreading rash after treatment. Emergency care is appropriate for severe breathing trouble, collapse or severe chest pain. Do not wait for the next appointment when symptoms are sudden or intense.
Questions for your doctor
What does my HER2 test show? Which medicine is being considered, and how is it given? What monitoring will I need? Which symptoms require an urgent call? How will this treatment fit with surgery, radiotherapy or other medicines?
Questions people ask
Does a surgeon perform HER2-targeted therapy?
A surgeon may be part of your cancer team, but the medical oncologist usually prescribes and monitors systemic HER2-targeted treatment.
Can HER2-targeted therapy be used with other treatment?
It may be combined with or sequenced around other cancer treatments when the oncology team considers that approach suitable.
Related
Related reading
Keep reading
Cancer care in the UAE
Hospitals & Medical Centers in Abu Dhabi
Most UAE cancer care is delivered inside hospital services rather than by standalone oncology clinics, so these are licensed hospitals & medical centers listed in Abu Dhabi. Confirm the specific cancer service exists before you travel, and know that asking for a second opinion is routine.
Ahalia Hospital Musaffah Building - Musaffah - Musaffah Industrial - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +26 more
Al Ruwais Industrial City - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +30 more
Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +30 more
Second opinions are routine in cancer care and asking for one does not affect your treatment. How to arrange a second opinion in the UAE.
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.