Bladder cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in adults, especially among men, according to the American Cancer Society. Fortunately, when bladder cancer is discovered early, it’s considered very treatable. Many cases of bladder cancer are diagnosed at an early stage.

Because bladder cancer is both common and treatable, finding the right healthcare provider is important. Here are five tips to keep in mind while you search for a doctor to guide you through bladder cancer treatment.

1. Seek a Board-Certified Urologist

A bladder cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but choosing a doctor who specializes in bladder cancer can make a big difference. Urologists specialize in treating urinary system issues, but not all are experts in managing bladder cancer. For the best care, consider seeing a urologic oncologist — these specialists focus on bladder cancer and have the expertise to guide your treatment.

Start by asking your primary care doctor for a recommendation or exploring resources from organizations like the Urology Care Foundation to find board-certified specialists. Choose a doctor who has experience treating bladder cancer, listens to your concerns, and clearly explains your treatment options.

Bladder cancer treatment often involves more than one type of therapy. Your doctor will work with you to create a plan tailored to your needs and preferences, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or newer treatments like immunotherapy. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and take charge of your health.

2. Consider Multidisciplinary Cancer Centers

Major cancer centers are often the best choice for bladder cancer treatment. These facilities handle a high volume of cases, giving their doctors and care teams a deep understanding of managing the condition. One key benefit is their multidisciplinary care teams, which include urologists, urologic oncologists, and radiologists who work together to coordinate your care.

Another advantage of these cancer centers is access to advanced treatment approaches, which is especially critical during the current shortage of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG). BCG, a common bladder cancer treatment, is an intravesical therapy (injected directly into the bladder). It has been a standard treatment for decades but is now in limited supply. New treatment options are being developed, and many are only available at major cancer centers. These facilities frequently offer clinical trials for new treatments, and your care team can help you explore these approaches. You can talk with your care team about clinical trials you might qualify for. If needed, the National Cancer Institute’s clinical trial search tool can help you identify other choices.

These centers have advanced technology, like robotic surgery and precise radiation machines, to provide the latest treatments. They also offer support services like counseling, nutrition advice, and financial help to make cancer care easier. Educational programs can help you decide on the best treatment plan for your needs.

3. Evaluate Experience and Specialization

Not all urologists specialize in treating bladder cancer. When talking to a doctor, it’s important to ask about their skills and experience with bladder cancer. Picking the right specialist can make a big difference in your treatment. Preparing for your appointment will help you feel more assured and gather the information you need.

To learn more about your doctor’s experience with bladder cancer, consider asking how many patients they’ve treated or whether they have worked with your specific type. You might also ask whether the cancer has spread and if additional imaging tests are needed to plan your treatment. Once you feel confident in their qualifications, you can start discussing treatments by asking questions, like “What are my options?”

Therapies commonly used to treat bladder cancer include chemotherapy, which uses medications to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. Surgery is another option and may involve removing part or all of the bladder. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells, while immunotherapy helps your immune system fight the cancer.

Your doctor’s answers can help you understand their experience. If they explain different treatments clearly, especially advanced options, it can help you decide if you trust them with your care.

4. Get a Second Opinion

Being diagnosed with bladder cancer can leave you unsure about what to do next. Getting a second opinion is one of the most helpful steps you can take. Different doctors may recommend different treatment plans based on their background and approach.

Many people with bladder cancer who get a second opinion are presented with alternative approaches. It’s not uncommon for the treatments suggested by the second expert to be a better fit for an individual’s situation. Because certain options for treating bladder cancer can impact your quality of life, it’s especially important to ensure you’re choosing the right treatment plan for you.

You may even want to reach out to more than two specialists to make sure you’re being offered the right treatment. Treatment recommendations can vary a lot. For example, if someone has advanced bladder cancer, one urologist might recommend removing the bladder, while another might suggest a different treatment that doesn’t require major surgery.

5. Check in With Your Insurance Company

Before seeing a new doctor, it’s important to understand the specifics of your health insurance coverage. For example, you’ll want to know ahead of time if the specialist you want to see is in your insurance network. Continued visits to an out-of-network healthcare provider can become expensive quickly. Keep in mind that you’ll likely need to schedule follow-up visits with your doctor in addition to treatment appointments.

Check your insurance coverage for second opinions. Some plans require them for cancer diagnoses, while others only cover them if requested. Coverage often depends on whether the doctor is in your network.

Because insurance policies vary widely, it’s important to know exactly what your plan covers before making any appointments.

If you want to know more about the details of your plan, contact your insurance company. The American Cancer Society has many resources to help you understand the costs of cancer treatment and work with your insurance during treatment.

Finding the right doctor for bladder cancer is a key step in your care. Start by looking for a board-certified urologist and consider getting a second opinion. Major cancer centers can provide advanced treatments and helpful support services to make your care more manageable. Finally, check your health insurance plan to avoid unexpected costs. With the right care team and information, you can feel more confident about your treatment decisions.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyBladderCancerTeam is the social network for people with bladder cancer and their loved ones. On MyBladderCancerTeam, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with bladder cancer.

Are you living with bladder cancer? Do you have tips that might help others with bladder cancer find the right doctor? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.