# Oncologists (cancer doctors) in Colorado

> An oncologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats cancer. They plan treatment such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation, and follow you afterward.

Source: Colorado Health Insurance Colorado Care Index (https://coloradohealthinsurance.com/care/oncology), data updated 2026-11-11. Published by Grove Benefit Advisors LLC, a licensed Colorado health insurance agency.

## When people see one

- A biopsy or scan shows cancer
- Your doctor finds a suspicious mass or abnormal blood test
- You have a past cancer and need follow-up care
- You want a second opinion on a cancer treatment plan

## How it differs

- General surgeon: A surgeon removes tumors. An oncologist plans medical treatment and coordinates care, often alongside the surgeon.

## On 2027 Colorado plans

- Referral: On some plans. 37 of the 148 2027 plans need a referral from your primary care provider to see a specialist: Kaiser Permanente's 29 plans (you may self-refer to certain specialists) and Denver Health (Elevate)'s 8 plans (self-referral allowed for OB-GYN and outpatient mental health care). The other 111 don't, according to each plan's 2027 summary of benefits. Confirm in the plan's summary of benefits.
- Visit cost by metal level (standard plans):
  - Bronze: $100 to $140 a visit on 10 of 56 plans
  - Silver: $50 to $90 a visit on 44 of 58 plans
  - Gold: $50 to $90 a visit on 26 of 30 plans

## In Colorado

- 336 clinicians at 144 locations in public records (NPPES, CMS).

## Questions to ask the office

- Do I need a referral from my primary care doctor?
- Which 2027 plans and network names do you take?
- Where are treatments given, and is that facility in my network?
- Are the drugs billed through the clinic or a specialty pharmacy?

## Sources

- [MedlinePlus: Cancer](https://medlineplus.gov/cancer.html)
- [National Cancer Institute: About Cancer](https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer)