You have just been diagnosed with breast cancer, and now you will face the daunting task of meeting with an oncologist for the first time. Most breast cancer patients have a variety of feelings that overwhelm them, including fear, anger, hope, inadequacy and more fear. It feels like insanity, but please know that this is normal. Here are some ideas that can improve the efficiency of appointments:
As with any initial consultation from a doctor, it is also important to bring your current drug list, information about your family history of cancer, and any insurance information.
Take someone to your first date and schedule more appointments later. I call this person a chemical partner. You may feel that you can handle the appointment yourself, but a lot of information was shared during the first date. Your mind will only retain a small part of it. Asking your chemistry partner to take notes will help you re-reference the discussion. In addition, when you are tired during chemistry and/or radiation, you will want someone to help you remember the details that the oncologist Best oncologist in Delhi NCR. Now is not the time to become a lone ranger!
Ask your chemistry buddy to bring the notebook to the appointment. The notebook is for you to write down the questions you want to ask the oncologist, and leave space for answers and information. It should also have space for you to store any documents, such as pathology reports, test results, and appointment summaries. If you are creative, then decorating the front of the magazine will be a great art project. Or, if you have someone who likes art, ask them to make a beautiful cover for your diary. People hope to provide support during this difficult time.
You may think of many questions, but here are some key questions to ask on a first date:
• What type of breast cancer do I have?
• At what stage is my breast cancer?
• What treatment do you recommend for me?
• How will these treatments affect my five-year survival rate?
• What are the side effects of these treatments? How can they change my daily life?
• How long will it take me to make a decision about treatment?
It is important that you pay attention to how you feel during the date. The doctor will be a key person in your treatment process. Are you comfortable asking questions? Do you think he/she answered your question in a way that you can understand? Do you think he/she listened to any concerns you expressed during the date? If you have any questions about these views, it is best to seek your opinion again. This will give you peace of mind and help you determine whether the oncologist is right for you.
Finally, contact you to provide support services, Best radiation oncologist in Delhi NCR, including nursing services, breast cancer support groups and other breast cancer survivors. This journey is demanding, but you don't have to travel alone.