A cancer diagnosis may result in a long string of appointments with oncologists, radiation therapists, dieticians, specialists, and more. Over time, you could develop relationships with the professionals giving you care. At first, however, being in new environments, developing new routines, processing your diagnosis, and weighing treatment options can be overwhelming and scary.
In the midst of overwhelm, preparing for your cancer appointment can make a huge difference in getting the care you need. In this post, you’ll learn how to prepare for your cancer appointment, whether it’s your very first or your fifteenth.
1. Write down your questions ahead of time.
If you have a mental list of questions scrolling through your head, write down your questions and bring them with you. You should do this even if you feel confident you’ll remember them all during your appointment.
You may find that your mind suddenly goes blank or you have that nagging feeling you had one more question but can’t remember it, and then you’ll be glad you can pull out your phone or notepad with your questions.
2. Know That it’s Okay to Ask Questions
While it might go without saying, you should know it’s more than okay to ask questions of your physicians and caregivers! Sometimes, cancer patients choose not to ask questions for fear of bothering their doctor or because their doctor seems rushed.
Many elements go into doctors creating a safe, inviting space to converse with them, and we sincerely hope all cancer patients have a doctor who creates that space. Whatever you might face, know it is perfectly within your right to ask the questions you need to for your own peace of mind or to ensure you understand the treatment plan. You are your own best advocate for your health.
3. In between appointments, keep track of your overall health and well-being.
Did you take a medication that resulted in side effects lasting a couple of days? Write those side effects down!
Chances are, like writing down your questions, if you do not write down how you felt or things that were unusual but only lasted a short period of time, you will not remember what to share with your doctor. It doesn’t necessarily mean that there is a significant problem if you are experiencing symptoms, but your doctor, with their expertise, could help identify ways to ease unwanted symptoms if they know about it.
In some cases, keeping a daily journal can help tremendously. Keeping track of the medications you take, any new or ongoing symptoms and your emotional well-being is a good way for you to share your overall status with your clinical team.
4. Bring someone else with you to your appointment.
When you’re processing a cancer diagnosis, your mind and heart could be reeling with the news and how it impacts your life. Bringing someone else along to your appointment could help calm your nerves and provide a second set of ears to listen to what the doctor is saying about your treatment and potential side effects. Comparing notes after the appointment means something is rarely missed.
They may also be able to ask questions you would not have considered.
When selecting someone else to accompany you, consider these criteria:
- Does this individual listen to requests for what I need from them?
- Is this individual emotionally resilient in that they will not overreact when hearing the doctor talk to me?
- Does the individual have the time to come with me to the appointment?
5. Check Your Insurance Coverage
Some treatments require prior authorization, which is an insurance company’s way of confirming if they will cover the costs. This can be a long process, especially if appealing the decision is needed because what your doctor ordered is the best medical option.
For prior authorization issues or deciphering your health insurance coverage, your Wheelhouse team through your employer can help. You can consult us for benefits advisory. We have many years of experience understanding medical bill coding. Being in the oncology field for over 20 years helps us navigate cancer patients through the system.
We hope these tips help you to prepare for your cancer appointment!
If you’re a Wheelhouse member, visit wheelhousecares.com/members to contact us today. You’ll receive help to prepare for your cancer appointment or understand your insurance benefits.
