Treating cancer with radiotherapy
Radiotherapy treats tumors with high-energy radiation delivered precisely, sparing surrounding healthy tissue as much as possible. It is one of the pillars of cancer treatment, alongside surgery and drug-based therapies. It can be the primary treatment, complement surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence, be combined with chemotherapy, or help control symptoms such as pain. Every plan is defined by the cancer type, its location, the stage and your overall situation — which is why the first step is always a personal assessment with the specialist.
A specialist with deep ties to the Magdalena region
Dr. William Baquero earned his medical degree at Universidad del Norte in Barranquilla, completed his specialization in radiation oncology at the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina, and pursued advanced training at Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Chile. He has dedicated more than 12 years to treating cancer with radiotherapy, and his connection to Santa Marta runs deep — he was named Person of the Year 2019 by HOY Diario del Magdalena. He consults in English and Spanish, making him a natural choice for expats and international visitors living on or near Colombia's Caribbean coast. His approach is personal: the same physician who assesses you plans your treatment and follows your progress.
Cancers commonly treated with radiotherapy
Dr. Baquero treats a wide range of tumors with radiotherapy, including:
- Breast cancer, after breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy.
- Prostate cancer, as a primary or complementary treatment.
- Head and neck tumors (larynx, oral cavity, pharynx, among others).
- Skin cancer, including lesions on the face and delicate areas.
- Keloids and problematic scars, with postoperative radiotherapy.
- Gynecologic, digestive, lung and other tumors, depending on each case.
If your diagnosis is not on this list, it is still worth asking — the assessment determines whether radiotherapy has a role in your treatment.
Available techniques
- IMRT (intensity-modulated radiotherapy): concentrates the dose on the tumor while better protecting nearby organs.
- 3D conformal radiotherapy: CT-based three-dimensional planning fitted to the shape of the tumor.
- High-dose-rate brachytherapy: internal radiation placed very close to or inside the tumor, in selected cases.
- Electron therapy: useful for superficial lesions such as some skin cancers and keloids.
The right technique for your case is defined during your assessment and treatment planning.
Patients from Santa Marta and Magdalena: less running around, more support
For many patients in the Magdalena region, a cancer diagnosis brings not only the illness but a maze of paperwork and travel. Dr. Baquero knows this reality well, which is why he personally coordinates care for his patients from Santa Marta, El Rodadero, Ciénaga and the surrounding municipalities — organizing the assessment, studies and treatment so that you avoid unnecessary trips and waiting. Where each part of the process takes place depends on your case and is decided with you during the assessment, always seeking the most convenient option for you and your family.
How the process works, step by step
The path from first contact to treatment is clear and orderly:
- Direct contact: write via WhatsApp or call to schedule your appointment — no intermediaries needed.
- Assessment: Dr. Baquero reviews your history and studies (biopsy, PET-CT, CT, MRI) and explains whether radiotherapy is indicated and with what goal.
- Planning: a simulation CT scan is performed, followed by a personalized dose calculation.
- Sessions: daily, Monday to Friday, on an outpatient basis, lasting only a few minutes.
- Follow-up: during and after treatment, with check-ups to review your progress and manage any side effects.
He accepts private-pay (out-of-pocket) patients and works with most health insurance plans; coverage is confirmed when you schedule.
Second opinions and virtual consultations
If you already have a diagnosis or a radiotherapy plan recommended by another physician, you can request a second opinion to confirm or review it with peace of mind. Virtual consultations are also available and are especially useful for patients in Santa Marta and the Magdalena region — they allow an initial orientation and a review of your studies without traveling, and help organize the next steps before any trip. Having your biopsy, imaging and medical summaries on hand makes the consultation far more productive.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get an appointment if I live in Santa Marta?
Contact Dr. Baquero directly via WhatsApp or phone. He personally coordinates the assessment and tells you where and when you will be seen according to your case.
Do I need a referral to book?
You can consult directly, without a referral. If your insurer requires one to cover treatment, he will guide you through obtaining it.
Do you accept private-pay patients and insurance?
Yes. Dr. Baquero sees private-pay patients and works with most health insurance plans. Coverage is confirmed when you schedule your appointment.
How soon can I be seen?
Coordinate directly via WhatsApp or phone. When radiotherapy has been indicated, every effort is made to schedule the assessment as soon as possible.
Can I send my studies before the consultation?
Yes. Sharing your biopsy, PET-CT, CT or MRI in advance allows a more precise assessment from the very first consultation.
Can a family member attend the consultation?
Yes, and it is encouraged. A family member helps remember the information, ask questions and share in treatment decisions.
Does radiotherapy hurt?
The session itself is painless, similar to having an X-ray. Any side effects that appear during treatment are managed together with your doctor.
Do you offer virtual consultations?
Yes. A virtual consultation is especially useful for patients in the Magdalena region — an initial orientation or a second opinion without having to travel.
Ready for an assessment?
Dr. Baquero will personally review your case. Care in Barranquilla · Santa Marta.
The information on this page is educational and does not replace an individual medical assessment.