A Protocol for Oncologists!
Just as breast cancer oncologists have a protocol of
pateients’ treatment they follow, here is a protocol for the oncologists
themselves. Having a good relationship
with your oncologist goes a long way in managing the illness. I’m well aware oncologists are overworked and
overburdened by a number of factors but these simple steps can help your
patients immeasurable. Based on my personal experiences I’ve established this
list.
1. Don’t threaten the patient. This doesn’t lead to compliance but can make
the patient distrust the doctor. I was
told by an oncologist after she filled a whiteboard with indecipherable names
of chemotherapy, that if I didn’t follow that I would be dead in a year. I never returned.
2. Don’t
call with negative results of scans or tests before 9AM. No one wants that early morning call with bad
news. Sometimes with good news of a
clear scan or procedure I never received a call with that information at all.
3. Your
patient isn’t just her or his cancer. Be
aware of other signs that may indicate depression or other health
concerns. Ask. Don’t just ask about side effects of the
treatments.
4. Be
informed of alternative treatments. Most
likely your patients are and may be using different therapies.
5. Be
honest about projected outcomes, but once again, don’t threaten. However, don’t give false hopes either.
6. Let
the patient deliberate on which treatment options are available. Don’t rush the patient.
7. Give
your patient information about the effects and potential side effects of
treatments or medications. Possible
versus probable is important here.
8. Don’t be stingy with anti-anixiety or pain
medications. These can make life
tolerable.
9. Learn
from your patients. There may be hints
you can pass along to other patients.
10. Ask
the patient what he or she can do to feel better. Leave something in the patient’s hands. It could be as simple as taking vitamin D or
doing gentle exercise.
