It's important to recognize that the doctor who coordinates your care is assisted by many other professionals who can help meet your needs for information, practical advice, supportive care, and reassurance. Your treatment team may include some or all of these health care professionals:
- Doctors: may include your family physician or primary care doctor, medical oncologist,
pathologist,
general or plastic surgeon, or radiation oncologist
- Nurses and other experts: may include your oncology nurse, oncology social worker, nutritionist, physical therapist, or pharmacist
Steps for enhancing communication
It takes time to develop confidence and trust in your breast cancer treatment team. Here are some tips for getting the relationship off to a good start and overcoming obstacles to effective communication:
Bring details and questions to your doctor’s appointments: before visiting your doctor, make some notes about when you first noticed any symptoms and write a list of questions. Report any changes in your health since your last visit. Keep track of dates and results of procedures, lab tests, medications, and doctor’s visits in a journal or notebook you can carry to every appointment
- Bring a second pair of ears: take a friend or relative with you to doctor’s appointments. If you don't understand something, ask the doctor or nurse to explain it again
- Don't be afraid to express your feelings: If you're feeling upset or angry about your care, try to figure out exactly what is bothering you. Write down your concerns so that when you speak with the doctor, you can explain them clearly
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Know your rights and responsibilities
As a "partner" in your own care, you have a right to know as much as you want to know about your medical condition. However, it is your responsibility to tell your treatment team how much you want to know and to keep them updated on how you're feeling. Here are some things you can do to exercise your rights and responsibilities:
- Get all your questions answered. Seek a second opinion if necessary
- Have medical information explained in language you can understand
- Take the time you need to sort out your treatment options
- Keep your breast cancer treatment team informed of changes in your medical condition, and let them know how you are coping with the effects of treatment
- Make your breast cancer treatment team aware of any complementary or alternative therapies you are considering
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