How to Pick an Oncologist After a Cancer Diagnosis

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Discovering that you or a loved one has cancer places a significant emphasis on finding the best medical care and treatment plan available. Choosing the right doctor becomes a pivotal decision in this difficult period.

Whether you stay with the doctor who first identified the cancer or opt for another specialist, such as an oncologist, select a doctor who provides comfort and works closely with you throughout the diagnosis and treatment phases. Here are some important aspects to consider.

Verify Their Availability

When choosing an oncologist, it is crucial to ensure they are accessible when you need them, as this minimizes wait times, reducing the necessity to seek another physician due to unavailability.

The diagnosis process can be stressful, and delays only heighten patient worry. By prioritizing timely consultations, you can swiftly access important information. Before meeting with your oncologist for the first time, confirm they have received all pertinent details and previous test results. This includes sharing copies of:

• X-rays
• Medical history
• MRI scans
• Pathology reports
• CAT scans

This provides comprehensive information, allowing the oncologist to make more accurate diagnoses and offer well-informed advice.

Assess the Doctor’s Expertise

Look for an oncologist with board certification who can treat your cancer type. Board certification is a key element in choosing a doctor. It indicates they have the necessary oncology training, skills, and experience. 

If you need a specific procedure, ask how often the doctor has performed it. Understand the complications they have faced and your potential risk. This knowledge helps you make an informed decision about your cancer treatment. If you suffer from malignant mesothelioma, for example, you will want to make sure the doctor you choose has experience in treating this type of cancer.

Learn Additional Details

After identifying doctors who seem suitable for you, contact their offices to confirm if they accept your health insurance and are open to new patients. Additionally, inquire about the cancer centers and hospitals they are affiliated with and where they can admit patients.

The next step is to arrange consultations with a few doctors if feasible. Verify with their offices and your insurance provider whether these visits are covered. If not, consider asking some of your questions over the phone to help narrow down your options.

Know Your Needs

While expertise and reputation are crucial, there are additional factors to consider when selecting an oncologist or care team. Ensure your potential oncologist is experienced with your specific cancer type, accepts your insurance, has admitting rights at your preferred hospital, and is someone you feel at ease with. Inquire if they participate in clinical trials, how to reach care after hours, and who will be included in your care team.

Get Referrals

Gather recommendations from a range of sources, such as your primary care doctor, relatives, friends, or individuals who have survived cancer. Also, seek guidance from your health insurance provider or local cancer support groups. Ask them, “If you were in my shoes, which doctor would you select first?” Aim to get at least two or three names and find out the specialties of these suggested doctors.

Learning from the experiences of others can offer valuable insights into a doctor’s medical practice and approach. Patient reviews often address factors like appointment scheduling, wait times, office atmosphere, and the friendliness of the staff. 

End note

These factors act as important indicators to assess the quality of your relationship with the oncologist, ensuring you feel heard and supported throughout your healthcare journey. It might require multiple visits for you and your doctor to become familiar with each other.