Comprehensive Cancer Centers offers guidelines for those diagnosed with cancer, or those helping family and friends with cancer, to ensure a successful treatment journey.
Comprehensive Cancer Centers understands that a cancer diagnosis brings many questions and concerns. Navigating treatment options, financial considerations, and complex emotions can feel overwhelming. Our care team is here to provide guidance and cancer diagnosis support as you begin your treatment journey.
How Do I Choose a Doctor for My Treatment?
If your cancer diagnosis was made by a doctor who is not a cancer specialist-such as your primary care physician or OB/GYN-your first step will be to schedule an appointment with an oncologist, ideally one with Comprehensive.
During your cancer treatment journey, you will likely work with multiple specialists. One of the first people you will meet with will be a medical oncologist. They will review your test results, diagnosis information, order any additional testing, and recommend a treatment plan based on the stage of your disease. This plan may include bringing in other providers, such as a surgeon, radiation oncologist, and additional health care specialists.
Your diagnosing doctor may refer you to a specific oncologist, but it’s important to choose a provider who feels right for you. We encourage you to review provider information online before making your decision.
Questions to Ask When Choosing Your Doctor:
- How experienced is this doctor in treating your specific cancer type?
- Does this doctor’s communication style and bedside manner make you feel comfortable?
- Is this doctor accepting new patients? How quickly can you get an appointment?
- How far is the office from your home? Certain treatments, like radiation and chemotherapy, require frequent office visits.
- Does this doctor have admitting privileges at a hospital with expertise in cancer care?
- Does the doctor accept your insurance?If not, what options are available to help manage treatment costs?
How Quickly Should I Make a Decision About My Treatment?
It’s important to make informed decisions so you can begin your treatment as soon as possible. However, you should take the time to speak to an oncologist about their recommendations and your options. Ask questions and begin treatment armed with the information you need about your care.
Should I Get a Second Opinion?
It’s natural to want a second opinion on your diagnosis and recommended treatment before making any decisions. There’s no harm in doing this, and it can help you feel confident about your diagnosis and treatment plan.
Comprehensive oncologists are available to provide second opinions for patients. Most insurance companies will cover a second opinion assessment, but you should always check with your insurance provider before making an appointment.
What Should I Expect During My First Appointment?
During your first appointment, your oncologist will explain what they know about the type of cancer you have. If possible, they will also discuss potential treatment options based on the information available. If they don’t have all the information they need, your oncologist may order additional testing.
You’ll receive a lot of important information during your appointments, often in a short amount of time. Taking notes can help you stay organized and remember key details. A simple way to do this is by using a binder with paper for notes and pockets for handouts. Another option is to record your conversation with your provider—just be sure to ask for permission first.
If possible, bring a supportive friend or family member to your first appointment. They can help you listen for details, ask questions, and review the information with you afterward.
Questions to Ask Your Comprehensive Cancer Oncologist
Asking questions can help you better understand your cancer and what to expect during treatment. Your cancer care team may not know all of the answers to these questions at your first appointment, but once you have a treatment plan in place, you should be able to get through this entire list.
- What is my exact diagnosis and stage?
- Will I need more tests?
- Do I need to change my diet?
- What are the treatment options for my cancer?
- What is the goal of treatment–to cure or control my symptoms?
- Does my cancer treatment plan include surgery?
- What are the possible risks of treatment?
- How long will treatment last, and will cancer treatment affect my daily life?
- What are the side effects of my treatment options?
- What problems or symptoms should I report right away?
- What does my future (prognosis) look like, as you see it?
- Do my siblings or children have an increased risk of developing this type of cancer?
- Should I exercise during chemotherapy or radiation treatments?
- Will I need to see other medical or cancer specialists as part of my treatment?
Should I Consider a Clinical Trial?
Clinical trials help uncover various new cancer treatment options for a variety of cancers and give many patients the opportunity to receive newly developed cancer treatment therapies or investigational drugs not yet available outside the study. Comprehensive Cancer Centers provides clinical research opportunities for patients, with new therapies being opened up regularly. Click here to find new and active clinical research options.
Ask your oncologist and their team to explore clinical trials as a first care option, especially if there are tailored treatment options being studied that may be more effective in targeting your particular cancer.
What is the Financial Cost of My Treatment?
If you have insurance, your policy may cover at least some of your treatment. After your diagnosis, contact your insurer and ask for a copy of your medical insurance benefits. Every policy is different, and every patient’s recommended course of treatment will be unique.
Once your treatment plan is finalized, financial counselors will be available to help you determine your benefits and what options you have. If you do not have insurance, you may qualify for financial assistance through non-profits or foundations. Our practice can help you explore these options and apply for financial assistance if needed.
What Support Options Are Available to Me?
Having the necessary support can make a difference during this difficult time. Many hospitals, cancer centers, community groups, and schools offer cancer support groups. The American Cancer Society (LINK 3) is a great place to search for support groups in your area. We have patient resources that our team can recommend for you, and they will help you to stay connected during and after your cancer treatment journey.
Comprehensive Cancer Centers Can Help
Physicians at Comprehensive Cancer Centers are proud to provide expert care from a multidisciplinary team of compassionate cancer specialists. We know this is a difficult time, and we are here to help. To schedule an appointment, please call 702-952-3350.
The content in this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
