CANCER DIAGNOSIS? THREE STEPS TO FINDING THE BEST ONCOLOGIST

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Cancer diagnosis is life-changing and comes with countless emotions for you and those who love you most. As you navigate this journey, the most important first step is choosing the best oncologist for you.

They become a critical member of your health care team and will play a lead role in recommending and providing the high­est-quality treatments and services to help you achieve the greatest possible outcome.

This can be overwhelming, so we’ve outlined three essential tips to help you get started, narrow your search and find the right oncologist for your care needs.

Tip No. 1: Ask for advice from the people you trust and do some basic research.

Ask your primary care doctor for a referral.

Your doctor is a great place to start and will have an extensive database and network of experts to help you find an oncolo­gist. The best question for your doctor is, “Whom would you recommend to a family member?”

Research their qualifications. 

Ask the doctor who referred you, ask the clinic or office staff when scheduling your appointment and check online to ensure the oncologist you’re looking into has positive reviews and ample experience.

Below are a few things you should check:

• Find out where they went to medical school and received training, how many years of experience they have and the location of their practice.
• Look for a board certification. This tells you the doctor has the necessary training, skills and experience to provide cancer care.
• Malpractice and disciplinary history, if any, is posted on Healthgrades.com and state websites.
• Read online reviews via Google and health care review sites.

Tip No. 2: Ask questions …  lots of questions.

As you research your prospective oncologists, make a list of questions that can provide you with reassurance that your care will be their priority. We’ve provided some samples below.

• How soon can you see me and get treatment started?
• How many patients have you treated with my type of cancer?
• Who else will be involved in my care?
• What services are provided at your office location?
• How are you keeping up with advancements in cancer care?
• Will I be able to receive all the care I need at this location?
• Do you encourage loved ones to participate in appointments?
• Will I have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials?
• What other support services are available to me at this practice (emotional support, support groups, financial counseling, social services)?
• What will my treatment cost, and what payment options do I have if I lack generous health insurance?

Tip No. 3: Consider the little things that make a big difference.

Communication style and personability: A doctor’s communi­cation style and attentiveness equally contribute to patient satisfaction. Be aware of how they greet you and respond to your questions. Do they make you feel comfortable? Do they take time to provide clear answers and use terms that you understand? Do they show an interest in you as a person, and will they consider your treatment preferences?

Gender: You will need to discuss very personal information throughout your treatment openly, and this factor may be important to you. If so, some oncologists specialize in gen­der-specific cancer care.

Insurance coverage: Ask your oncologist what your treatment is expected to cost. Do they have an experienced person on their team to assist you? How and when will you receive bills? Talk to your insurance company. Be sure you understand your deductibles, co-insurance, pharmacy coverage and any other costs and considerations.

Location, location, location: The best cancer care isn’t exclusive to national or academic treatment centers. Getting quality, cut­ting-edge treatment closer to home has numerous benefits.

Cancer treatment can take a long time and involves multiple appointments, tests and forms of treatment.

Ideally, you’ll want to find an office location closer to home that is easy to access. Some additional items to consider: Is there convenient or free parking? Do the office hours match your schedule?

And lastly, don’t forget to ask yourself, is this a pleasant space where you and anyone accompanying you will feel comfortable?

Don’t settle.

Remember, when choosing the right oncologist, no question is too silly, and no amount of research or preparation is too much. Do not be afraid to ask for what you need, and only settle on a doctor when you feel comfortable with your choice.

Now that you know what you’re looking for and where to start, you are well on your way to meeting a compassionate and quality oncologist who will help you through your cancer journey.

WORLD-CLASS CANCER TREATMENT, CLOSE TO HOME

About Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, LLC: (FLCancer.com)

In Palm Beach County, board-certified physicians specializing in medical oncology, hematology, gynecologic oncology, cancer rehabilitation and pain management, as well as vascular, inter­ventional and diagnostic radiology, provide personalized care for all forms of cancer and blood disorders. With extraordinary skill and experience, they deliver treatments with maximum effec­tiveness and safety, combined with com­ passion and concern for patients and their loved ones. From genetic screening to immunotherapies and access to the latest clinical trials, our top-ranked cancer experts provide the newest and most advanced treatments available – increasing cure rates and extending lives.

Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute