Relationship Between Doctor and Patient
When you are diagnosed with breast cancer, you will be assigned to a team of cancer specialists, which may include:
A cancer specialist
- An oncologist who specializes in surgery
- An oncologist who specializes in radiation therapy
- A caseworker, nurse navigator, or patient navigator
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An oncology nurse and a registered dietitian may also be part of your healthcare team.
Can you ask questions and receive clear answers?
Finding the right team, one made up of professionals with whom you feel at ease, makes a significant difference in how your treatment will progress. Your doctors should be knowledgeable, but they should also welcome questions and explain your treatment options in a way you can understand.
Do you understand your treatment objectives and why specific treatments are recommended?
Once you’ve chosen your team, your doctors can explain your treatment options, expected outcomes, and potential side effects.
Are Your Concerns Being Considered?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions; discussing your concerns with your oncology team, even if you believe they will be dismissed, will help you better understand your options and provide your doctors with insight into what is important to you. There are numerous treatment options available to you today. Collaborate with your team to find the best combination for you.
Do you feel comfortable telling your medical team about what you’ve discovered about your condition?
Do your homework. Speak with breast cancer survivors and support groups. The more you know about your treatment options, the better decisions you’ll be able to make.
Do you know which aspects of your treatment plan are your responsibility?
Remember that while your doctors can make suggestions and offer options, the final decision about your treatment is yours. You can be confident in your chosen path if you conduct thorough research. Accepting your role will increase your chances of living a long and healthy life.
When Should You Seek a Second Opinion?
A second opinion can help you feel more confident in your treatment plan and healthcare partnership decisions. You will feel less anxious if you can build trust and care with your doctor. Your peace of mind is an important part of the equation, in addition to quality care and sound treatment decisions.
Here are some ideas to consider when seeking second opinions:
- Most breast cancer specialists are fine with their patients seeking a second opinion.
- Many health insurance companies will pay for a second opinion if you or your doctor request one, and some require it.
- If you seek a second opinion, the doctor may concur with your primary care physician’s diagnosis and treatment plan. Alternatively, the second doctor may suggest a different approach. In any case, you will have more information and a greater sense of control. You may also feel more confident in your decisions if you’ve carefully considered your options.
- Ensuring that the treatments you receive are by the NCCN treatment guidelines is critical. As a result, consider printing the NCCN Guidelines for Patients document. It contains treatment guidelines based on disease stage and prognostic tumour factors that are considered the gold standard nationally.
- Gathering your medical records and seeing another doctor may take time and effort. It is usually fine if it takes several weeks to obtain a second opinion. In most cases, delaying treatment will not reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. To be certain, you should discuss this potential delay with your doctor. Some breast cancer patients require immediate treatment.
- There are numerous ways to locate a breast cancer specialist for a second opinion. You can get the names of specialists from your doctor, a local or state medical society, a nearby hospital, or a medical school.
