Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the most common questions we get. If yours isn't here, get in touch.
About CancerDrs
What is CancerDrs.com and who runs it?
CancerDrs.com is a data-first navigator for cancer patients operated by MiniGig LLC. We aggregate public information from ClinicalTrials.gov, the NPI Registry, the NCI, SEER, and CMS — and add educational content to help newly-diagnosed patients and caregivers navigate decisions. We are not a medical provider and do not give medical advice.
Are you a doctor?
No. This site is a data aggregator. Every page cites the primary source for its claims. We recruit practicing oncologists to review educational content on a quarterly basis.
Do you sell rankings?
No. Practices can purchase flat-fee featured placement, which is clearly labeled as "Sponsored." The factual data we publish is identical whether a provider is sponsored or not.
Clinical trials
Where does your clinical trial data come from?
All trials on the site are sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov — the U.S. National Library of Medicine registry. We refresh weekly. For the most current eligibility and enrollment status, always verify directly on ClinicalTrials.gov or with the trial site.
Are all the trials free?
The experimental treatment itself is typically covered by the trial sponsor. Your routine care costs during the trial are usually billed to insurance. Federal law (ACA) requires most health plans to cover routine costs for qualifying trial participation.
How do I know if I qualify for a trial?
Every trial has inclusion and exclusion criteria (listed on ClinicalTrials.gov). Start by bringing trial NCT numbers to your oncologist. See our full walkthrough: /learn/how-to-find-a-clinical-trial/
Oncologist directory
Where does the doctor list come from?
The NPI Registry — the official federal registry of licensed U.S. healthcare providers, maintained by CMS. We refresh quarterly. We only list Type 1 (individual provider) NPIs, not Type 2 (organizations).
The phone number listed is wrong. How do I fix it?
Phone and address come from each provider's NPI record. Providers can update their own records at npiregistry.cms.hhs.gov. Our data refreshes from there.
Is this a quality ranking?
No. NPI registration indicates licensure, not quality. We show every licensed oncologist meeting the specialty criteria. For quality signals, look at the /cancer-centers/ section which uses NCI designation and CMS Hospital Compare data.
Second opinions
Is getting a second opinion rude?
No. Most oncologists consider second opinions standard practice and will support them. Research shows second opinions change the diagnosis or treatment plan in 10–30% of cancer cases.
Can I do it virtually?
Yes. Most top U.S. cancer centers offer virtual second-opinion programs. See /second-opinion/ for a step-by-step guide.
Your privacy
Do you sell my information?
No. We do not sell personal information to advertisers or law firms. If you opt in via our quiz, we match you to trials and resources based on what you asked for. See /privacy/ for full details.
Is this HIPAA-compliant?
CancerDrs is not a covered entity under HIPAA because we don't provide healthcare services. We treat anything you share through our forms with appropriate care and store minimal data.