Top pancreatic cancer specialists: A 2026 Guide to Your Expert Team

Receiving a pancreatic cancer diagnosis is overwhelming, and the immediate next step, finding the right medical team, is one of the most critical decisions you will make. The expertise of your specialists can directly influence treatment options, quality of life, and outcomes. This is not just about finding a doctor; it is about assembling a multidisciplinary team that understands the nuances of this complex disease. From high-volume surgeons to medical oncologists pioneering new therapies, the landscape of care is vast and can be difficult to navigate alone.

This guide is designed to be your starting point, cutting through the confusion to connect you with world-class care. We will explore the criteria that define top pancreatic cancer specialists and profile invaluable resources for finding them, with a special focus on leading centers in the NYC and Brooklyn area. Our goal is to empower you with the information needed to find not just any doctor, but the right partner for your specific journey.

In this roundup, you will discover a curated list of the most effective websites and platforms for locating premier physicians and treatment centers. We will provide a clear, actionable overview of each resource, including:

• Hirschfeld Oncology: A specialized outpatient infusion center in Brooklyn offering innovative, research-informed protocols.
• Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN): A patient-centric service with a powerful clinical trial finder.
• Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer: An interactive map to locate specialists across the United States.
• National Pancreas Foundation (NPF): A directory of designated Centers of Excellence.
• Castle Connolly Top Doctors & U.S. News Doctor Finder: Vetted national physician directories.
• Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK): Direct access to renowned experts in NYC.

Each entry includes screenshots and direct links, helping you align with a team that offers access to the latest advancements in care, including immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and innovative low-dose chemotherapy protocols.

1. Hirschfeld Oncology

Hirschfeld Oncology stands out as a premier destination for pancreatic cancer care, particularly for patients seeking innovative, evidence-informed treatment beyond standard protocols. Led by Dr. Azriel Hirschfeld, a board-certified oncologist with over two decades of experience, this Brooklyn-based practice has carved a niche as a leader in managing complex and advanced-stage cancers. It merges deep clinical expertise with a patient-centric philosophy, making it a compelling choice for those navigating a difficult diagnosis.

The practice is distinguished by its forward-thinking treatment arsenal. Instead of relying solely on conventional high-dose chemotherapy, Dr. Hirschfeld specializes in sophisticated, less-toxic alternatives. This approach is designed to enhance quality of life without compromising efficacy, a critical factor for patients managing pancreatic cancer.

Why It Stands Out: Innovative and Patient-Focused Care

Hirschfeld Oncology earns its place as one of the top pancreatic cancer specialists by prioritizing individualized treatment plans for patients with stage 4 or treatment-refractory disease. The clinic’s strength lies in its ability to devise strategies when standard options have been exhausted.

Key therapeutic offerings include:

• Low-Dose Multi-Drug Chemotherapy: This metronomic approach uses lower, more frequent doses of chemotherapy drugs to disrupt tumor growth while significantly reducing the harsh side effects associated with traditional regimens.
• Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy: By leveraging genomic testing to identify specific cancer cell mutations, the clinic can deploy targeted agents that attack the cancer's unique vulnerabilities. Immunotherapy is used to empower the patient's own immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells.
• Repurposed Drugs and Clinical Trials: The practice actively explores novel treatment avenues, including repurposed non-cancer drugs with anti-tumor properties and facilitates access to relevant clinical trials. This research-driven mindset ensures patients are considered for the latest advancements in oncology.

Key Insight: The emphasis on minimizing toxicity while maximizing effectiveness is a cornerstone of the Hirschfeld Oncology philosophy. This patient-first approach addresses not just the disease, but the overall well-being of the individual, which is crucial in managing pancreatic cancer.

A Resource Hub for Patients and Families

Beyond its clinical excellence, Hirschfeld Oncology serves as a valuable educational resource through its active online presence. The clinic's blog is more than a marketing tool; it's a dynamic platform offering deep insights into cancer treatment. For an example of their detailed approach, you can explore their discussion on advanced pancreatic cancer treatment strategies.

The website provides:

• Real-world Case Studies: Detailed accounts of patient journeys and treatment outcomes, offering hope and transparency.
• Clinical Trial Updates: Information on emerging research and opportunities for patient participation.
• Wellness Guidance: Practical advice on symptom management, nutrition, and maintaining quality of life during treatment.

This commitment to education and transparency fosters a collaborative environment where patients and their families feel informed and empowered to participate in decision-making.

Practical Considerations

Availability: Hirschfeld Oncology is located at 19 Fayette Street, 4th Floor, in the Williamsburg/Bushwick area of Brooklyn. The practice operates an outpatient infusion center on-site, providing a convenient and comfortable setting for treatment. Hours are generally limited to weekdays (Monday to Thursday), so prospective patients should contact the office directly for scheduling and availability.

Consultation and Costs: The first step is to schedule a consultation by calling 718-732-4050 or emailing info@honcology.com. The website does not list specific pricing or insurance information. Treatment costs are handled on a case-by-case basis, as plans are highly individualized and may include innovative or off-label therapies. The administrative team works with patients to navigate insurance coverage and financial arrangements during the consultation process.

2. Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) – Patient Services and Clinical Trial Finder

Navigating a pancreatic cancer diagnosis is overwhelming, and finding the right care team is one of the most critical first steps. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) stands out because it isn't just a database; it's a dedicated, human-powered support system offered completely free of charge. Instead of leaving you to sift through endless profiles, PanCAN provides personalized guidance through its Patient Central program, connecting you directly with highly trained case managers.

These specialists offer one-on-one support via phone or email, helping you understand your diagnosis, get questions ready for your doctor, and find top pancreatic cancer specialists and high-volume cancer centers in your area, including leading experts in NYC. This personalized approach removes the guesswork and provides a vetted shortlist of options based on your specific situation.

Key Features and How to Use Them

PanCAN's services are designed to be actionable and easy to access, typically responding to inquiries within one business day.

• Patient Central Support: This is the core of PanCAN's offering. You can call or fill out a form online to be connected with a case manager. They act as your personal navigator, providing information on everything from diet and nutrition to interpreting pathology reports.
• Clinical Trial Finder: The website hosts a comprehensive, up-to-date database of pancreatic cancer clinical trials. You can filter searches by location, trial phase, biomarker, and treatment type. A case manager can also conduct a personalized trial search for you based on your medical records.
• Know Your Tumor®: This precision medicine service helps patients access molecular profiling to identify biomarkers that could match them with targeted therapies or clinical trials. A PanCAN case manager can explain the process and help you discuss it with your oncology team. For additional context on how these advanced tests influence care, you can learn more about modern pancreatic cancer treatment options.

What Makes PanCAN Unique?

While many websites list doctors, PanCAN’s model focuses on empowerment through guided support. The human element is its greatest strength; you are not just searching a directory but speaking with a knowledgeable professional dedicated solely to pancreatic cancer. This is particularly valuable for patients seeking second opinions or exploring innovative treatments at major research hubs. The service is entirely free, funded by donations, making it an accessible resource for everyone, regardless of financial standing. The main drawback is that it's not a direct booking platform, so you will still need to contact the referred specialists' offices to schedule appointments.

Website: https://www.pancan.org

3. Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer – Specialist Map (U.S.)

When facing a complex disease like pancreatic cancer, experience matters immensely. Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer addresses this by offering an interactive U.S. map specifically designed to help patients find physicians with a deep focus on this particular cancer. The platform stands out by prioritizing providers with significant case volumes and active participation in clinical trials, two critical factors linked to better patient outcomes. This tool is an excellent starting point for those looking to build a team of top pancreatic cancer specialists.

Unlike generic doctor finders, the Let's Win map is curated and updated quarterly, ensuring the information remains relevant. It provides a visual, geographic-based search for surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists, allowing you to quickly identify highly experienced doctors in your city or in major cancer hubs like NYC. This focus on high-volume centers makes it an invaluable resource for securing a second opinion or surgical evaluation from a proven expert.

Key Features and How to Use Them

The platform is free to use and designed for immediate, practical application, helping you narrow down your search for the right care team.

• Interactive Specialist Map: The core feature is a U.S. map where you can click on your state to see a list of vetted pancreatic cancer specialists. Each listing includes the doctor's name, specialty (surgical, medical, or radiation oncology), and hospital affiliation.
• Emphasis on High Volume: The selection criteria for inclusion on the map are strict, focusing on physicians from institutions known for treating a large number of pancreatic cancer patients. This ensures you are finding doctors with daily, hands-on experience.
• Linked Educational Content: Alongside the map, the website provides crucial articles on how to choose a surgeon and the importance of being treated at a high-volume center. This empowers patients with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions.

What Makes Let’s Win Unique?

Let's Win Pancreatic Cancer distinguishes itself by creating a pancreas-specific, volume-aware directory instead of an all-encompassing physician list. Its curated nature provides a level of trust that the specialists listed have demonstrated a significant commitment to treating this disease. It is one of the fastest ways to generate a shortlist of qualified experts for initial consultations or second opinions. The main limitation is that the list is not exhaustive; a doctor’s absence doesn’t signify a lack of qualification. Additionally, it is a referral tool, not a booking platform, so you must contact the provider's office directly to schedule an appointment.

Website: https://letswinpc.org/finding-pancreatic-cancer-specialist/

4. National Pancreas Foundation (NPF) – Centers of Excellence Locator

When searching for the best possible care, finding an institution with a proven, comprehensive approach to pancreatic cancer is paramount. The National Pancreas Foundation (NPF) simplifies this process with its "Centers of Excellence" locator, which identifies hospitals and medical centers that meet rigorous, audited standards for treating pancreatic diseases. This resource is invaluable for patients who want to ensure their care team operates within a high-volume, multidisciplinary framework, a key factor correlated with better patient outcomes.

The NPF’s designation is a seal of quality, awarded only to institutions that demonstrate excellence across the full spectrum of patient care. This includes having a dedicated team of surgeons, medical oncologists, gastroenterologists, and pathologists, as well as crucial support services like pain management, psychosocial support, and nutrition counseling. For patients and families, using this locator provides confidence that they are connecting with programs equipped to handle the complexities of this disease.

Key Features and How to Use Them

The NPF website makes it easy to find a designated center, with a user-friendly interface that gets you the information you need quickly.

• Centers of Excellence Locator: The primary tool is an interactive U.S. map and state-by-state list of approved Pancreatic Cancer Centers. Users can simply click on their state to see a list of designated institutions.
• Vetted and Audited Criteria: The platform is transparent about its selection process. Centers are required to have multidisciplinary teams, offer patient-focused programs, and conduct clinical research, ensuring you are finding true leaders in the field.
• Direct Contact Information: Each listing provides the center's name, address, and a direct phone number or contact person to initiate the appointment or referral process. This removes the barrier of navigating a large hospital's general phone system.

What Makes NPF Unique?

Unlike physician-only directories, the NPF focuses on the entire institutional program. Its strength lies in its rigorous, predefined criteria that assess the quality of the whole multidisciplinary team, including the presence of a dedicated pancreatic tumor board. This holistic view is critical for pancreatic cancer, where coordinated care between surgeons, oncologists, and support staff directly impacts treatment success. It’s an excellent starting point for identifying top pancreatic cancer specialists because it points you to the high-quality environments where they practice. The main drawback is that it’s center-focused, meaning you still need to research and select individual doctors within that institution. Furthermore, not all excellent programs may have applied for the designation.

Website: https://pancreasfoundation.org/patient-resources/npf-centers-of-excellence/

5. Castle Connolly Top Doctors – National Physician Directory

When searching for a trusted, independent endorsement of a physician's expertise, Castle Connolly's "Top Doctors" list is a go-to resource. This national directory is not based on patient reviews but on a rigorous peer-nomination and physician-led research process. For families seeking the best care, this provides a layer of professional validation, helping you identify leading surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, and gastroenterologists who are highly regarded by their own colleagues.

The platform allows you to filter your search by specialty, condition (pancreatic cancer), and location, making it an effective tool for finding top pancreatic cancer specialists both in major hubs like NYC and across the country. It is particularly useful for identifying highly-skilled individuals for a second opinion or for specific, complex procedures like the Whipple surgery, where a surgeon's experience is paramount.

Key Features and How to Use Them

Castle Connolly is designed to provide a credible starting point for your research, with profiles that offer essential background information and paths to schedule a consultation.

• Peer-Nominated Directory: The core of the platform is its merit-based selection. Doctors cannot pay to be listed. This ensures the physicians featured have been vetted and recommended by other medical professionals.
• Advanced Search Filters: To find a specialist, use the search bar and filter by "Pancreatic Cancer" as the condition and "Medical Oncology" or "Surgery" as the specialty. You can further narrow the results by city or state to create a shortlist of local experts.
• Detailed Physician Profiles: Each profile provides information on the doctor’s medical school, residency, board certifications, and hospital affiliations. Most profiles link directly to the physician's practice website or provide a phone number, streamlining the process of requesting an appointment. For guidance on how to make the most of that first meeting, review these essential questions to ask your oncologist.

What Makes Castle Connolly Unique?

Unlike patient review sites, Castle Connolly's distinction comes from its "insider" perspective. A listing here signifies that a doctor has earned the respect and trust of their peers, a powerful quality signal in a complex field like oncology. This makes it an excellent tool for verifying credentials and identifying physicians known for their clinical excellence. The main drawback is that while basic search is free, accessing full, detailed profiles and some advanced features may require creating a free account or a paid subscription. Additionally, because it is a general "Top Doctors" list, users must perform their own due diligence to confirm a specific doctor's volume and focus on pancreatic cancer.

Website: https://www.castleconnolly.com

6. U.S. News & World Report – Best Hospitals / Doctor Finder

When seeking care for a complex disease like pancreatic cancer, the quality of the hospital is just as important as the individual surgeon or oncologist. U.S. News & World Report provides a valuable, data-driven starting point by ranking hospitals for cancer care and gastroenterology/GI surgery. This approach allows you to identify high-performing institutions known for handling complex cases and then zero in on the top pancreatic cancer specialists who practice there.

Unlike simple physician directories, this platform connects doctors to hospital performance metrics, giving you a clearer picture of the entire care ecosystem. You can see which hospitals excel in patient safety, have high procedural volumes for surgeries like the Whipple procedure, and are recognized for advanced technologies and patient outcomes. This context is critical for making an informed decision about where to seek treatment.

Key Features and How to Use Them

The platform is free to use and designed to help patients connect institutional reputation with individual expertise.

• Best Hospitals Rankings: Start by exploring the national and regional rankings for "Cancer" and "Gastroenterology & GI Surgery." These lists highlight centers with a strong track record in complex oncological care. You can filter by location to find top-ranked hospitals in the NYC area or nationwide.
• Doctor Finder: Once you have identified a few high-performing hospitals, use the Doctor Finder tool to search for medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, or gastroenterologists within those specific institutions. Profiles provide credentials, accepted insurance, and contact information.
• Data-Driven Profiles: The platform uses a methodology that emphasizes objective data, such as patient survival rates, nurse staffing levels, and access to advanced clinical technologies. This helps you evaluate potential care centers based on proven outcomes rather than just reputation alone.

What Makes U.S. News & World Report Unique?

The primary strength of this resource is its focus on linking individual physicians to the quality and outcomes of the hospitals where they work. While other sites may list a doctor's credentials, U.S. News provides the institutional context that is vital for pancreatic cancer care, where a multidisciplinary team approach and hospital resources are paramount. It’s an excellent tool for identifying major academic medical centers and high-volume surgical programs that are often at the forefront of research and clinical trials. The main drawback is that the doctor profiles can be less detailed than on other platforms, and the appointment booking feature often redirects to the hospital's external system, adding an extra step to the process.

Website: https://health.usnews.com/doctors

7. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) – Pancreatic Cancer Experts and Appointments (NYC)

For patients in the New York City area and beyond, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) is a high-volume institution renowned for its deep expertise in treating pancreatic cancer. Its website serves as a direct portal to one of the world's leading multidisciplinary teams, allowing you to research specialists, understand treatment approaches, and initiate the appointment process efficiently. The platform is designed to connect patients directly with top pancreatic cancer specialists who are leaders in surgery, medical oncology, and innovative research.

MSK’s site provides a clear pathway for new patients to get started, with options to request an appointment online or by phone 24/7. This accessibility is crucial for those needing rapid consultations or second opinions. The center’s emphasis on coordinated, team-based care means that from the first contact, you are guided into a system where surgeons, oncologists, and other experts collaborate on your personalized treatment plan.

Key Features and How to Use Them

The MSK website is structured to streamline the search and appointment process, putting critical information at your fingertips.

• Public Roster of Specialists: The pancreatic cancer section features a comprehensive roster of the entire care team. You can view detailed bios for surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists, including their specific areas of expertise, research interests, and publications.
• 24/7 New-Patient Appointment Line: MSK offers a dedicated phone line and an online request form for new patients. This ensures a rapid intake process, where a care advisor collects your information and directs you to the most appropriate specialist to begin your evaluation.
• Extensive Clinical Trials Database: The site provides easy access to a list of active clinical trials for pancreatic cancer being conducted at MSK. You can learn about studies focused on new chemotherapies, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies, which can be discussed during your consultation.
• Specialized Clinics Information: You can find information on highly specialized programs, such as the Pancreatic Cyst Surveillance Program and protocols for borderline resectable disease, showcasing the center's advanced capabilities.

What Makes MSK Unique?

MSK's primary strength lies in its sheer volume and experience; its surgeons perform a high number of complex pancreas operations, which is strongly linked to better patient outcomes. The website effectively acts as the front door to this integrated ecosystem. For patients in NYC and the tri-state area, it offers a direct and convenient route to world-class care, with many specialists offering tele-consults for second opinions. The main challenge can be high demand, which may lead to longer wait times for certain subspecialists. Additionally, patients should proactively work with MSK’s financial counselors to understand and navigate out-of-network coverage, as billing can be complex.

Website: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/pancreatic

Top 7 Pancreatic Cancer Specialist Resources — Comparison

Taking the Next Step: How to Secure Your Consultation and Build Your Team

Navigating a pancreatic cancer diagnosis requires assembling a dedicated, expert team, and this guide has equipped you with the premier tools and resources to begin that critical process. We’ve explored a comprehensive suite of options, from the hyper-local, patient-centric care at Hirschfeld Oncology in Brooklyn to national databases like Castle Connolly and the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN). Each resource serves a distinct purpose in your search for the best possible care.

The journey from diagnosis to treatment is not just about finding a name on a list; it’s about building a partnership. The tools highlighted, such as the specialist maps from Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer and the National Pancreas Foundation’s Centers of Excellence, are your starting blocks. They provide vetted, geographically sorted lists of experts who are leaders in this challenging field. Similarly, major institutions like Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) offer concentrated expertise and access to a vast network of specialists under one roof. Your task now is to use these resources to transition from research to action.

From List to Consultation: Your Action Plan

Securing a consultation is your pivotal next step. This is where your research materializes into a tangible care plan. Remember, seeking second and even third opinions is not a sign of doubt but a mark of a proactive, empowered patient. The top pancreatic cancer specialists expect and encourage this.

To make this step as smooth as possible, follow this checklist:

1. Gather Your Medical Portfolio: Before making any calls, compile your essential documents. This includes pathology reports that confirm your diagnosis, all recent imaging scans (CT, PET, MRI) along with their corresponding radiological reports, a summary of treatments received to date, and a list of current medications.
2. Contact Your Top Choices: Reach out to the offices of the specialists you’ve identified. Be prepared to briefly explain your situation. Many specialized centers, understanding the urgency of pancreatic cancer, have streamlined processes for new patient intake or second opinions.
3. Prepare Your Questions: Your initial consultation is a two-way interview. Use the list of questions provided earlier in this article as a foundation. Focus on their experience with your specific type of pancreatic cancer, their philosophy on integrating innovative treatments like targeted therapy or low-dose chemotherapy, and how they coordinate with a multidisciplinary team.

Key Takeaway: A productive consultation is not just about receiving information; it's about establishing a connection. You are looking for a medical partner who communicates with clarity, respects your goals, and instills a sense of confidence in the path forward.

Final Thoughts on Building Your Expert Team

Your diagnosis does not define you, but the team you build to fight it can define your journey. The search for top pancreatic cancer specialists is an investment in your health and well-being. Whether you connect with a renowned expert at a large academic center or find a dedicated, research-driven specialist at a private practice, the goal is the same: to access personalized, cutting-edge care that aligns with your values.

Use the resources in this guide not just to find a doctor, but to build a support system. Empower yourself with knowledge, be persistent in your search, and never hesitate to advocate for the care you deserve. You are taking the most important step by actively seeking the best possible team to stand with you.

At Hirschfeld Oncology, we specialize in providing this exact level of personalized, innovative care for pancreatic cancer right here in Brooklyn. If you are seeking a specialist who combines deep expertise in targeted and low-dose therapies with a compassionate, patient-first approach, we invite you to learn more about our practice. Explore our unique treatment philosophy and connect with our team at Hirschfeld Oncology.