Parameters To Be Considered Wisely Before Choosing Breast Cancer Treatment Oncologist
After being diagnosed with breast cancer, each patient and his/her loved being need to approach the best oncologists for the best breast cancer treatment in India. In the process of choosing an oncologist’s team for treatment, to get the best care, need to consider certain parameters. The treating team for breast cancer treatment includes specialists such as a breast surgeon, a medical oncologist, a radiation oncologist, a plastic surgeon, and a genetic counselor.
The process of searching for doctors might seem overwhelming. But it needs research and in spite of feeling tempted to rush into decisions, so you can start treatment as soon as possible – the first and foremost need is to remain calm and approach the best cancer hospital with the best oncologists.
Now you must be worried that what you need to keep in mind you need to carefully select the doctors that are right for you and your patients.
Following parameters shall be wisely approached to consider when selecting each of the key members of the cancer treatment team:
1. Do oncologists and team members communicate well?
Communication is an essential part to be considered. As the treating oncologist explains things in a way you can understand, listens to you and/or the patient, and takes your concerns seriously. Remember the treating doctor should not act dismissive or threatened when you bring up treatment options you’ve researched or you mention the second opinion issues in your mind.
If possible, bring a loved being or your caretaker along to your appointments to help you form an understanding bond with to doctor. When you’re anxious or upset, it’s hard to catch and judge the interaction.
2. Do they have the experience and they are specialists in the field?
Make sure your oncologists have the right training, degrees, and experience. For example, choosing the best oncologist who specializes in breast cancer treatment rather than in treating several kinds of cancer- is a necessity to be considered. Also, see if a doctor is following advances and innovations in the stream. As if he can help you enroll in clinical trials and treatment approaches that are relevant to your situation.
3. Is their paramedical and office staff responsive?
Pay attention to whether the oncologist’s team and the doctor’s office staff are helpful, and return/answer your calls. If setting up appointments is too frustrating, that is not a green signal. However, try talking with your doctor about any problems and if still you don’t find a solution- then you may switch practices.
4. Could you follow up with them over the long term considering the distance from your living space and your economic status?
Your oncologists might be working with you extra particularly if you have metastatic breast cancer- an advanced-stage disease. This indicates that you are taking hormonal therapy on a long-term basis, or if you have an inherited gene mutation then in this case it’s best to choose the best oncologist who is going to be in practice for a long time and isn’t close to retiring. Also, the treating oncologists must not be in a far place and in a position to understand your economic status.
5. Do you want to keep looking for another doctor for a second opinion?
Ultimately, your goal should be to get the best care or provide the best care to your patient. Right from the beginning of your treatment don’t hesitate to get a second opinion if you’re lacking confidence in a particular doctor’s treatment recommendations, expertise, or communication skills. Asking for opinions from other doctors can also help and don’t hide it from your current doctor.
Opting for the best cancer treatment in India, the best oncologists, or the second opinion – please consider contacting Cancer Rounds.
