The treatment of the cancer will require you to meet a number of doctors and other health professionals from different fields of medicine. They may include some of the following:
- a medical oncologist, who specialises in chemotherapy and hormonal therapy, as well as management of pain and other symptoms
- a radiation oncologist, also known as a radiotherapist, who specialises in radiotherapy management
- a radiation therapist, who delivers radiotherapy
- a surgeon
- breast care nurses, who specialise in caring for women with breast cancer
- oncology nurses, who specialise in administering chemotherapy and assist with radiotherapy
- a general practitioner
- a palliative care consultant, palliative care nurse and palliative care volunteers who specialise in providing support and symptom relief
- a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist, who specialise in providing support. They are also trained in treating anxiety and depression, and helping cope with pain
- a social worker, who specialises in providing support and helping organise practical and financial assistance
- a dietitian, who specialises in providing information about diet
- an occupational therapist, who specialises in providing practical assistance
- a physiotherapist, who specialises in pain management and providing exercise programs
- a pastoral care /religious representative. Many women find the large range of specialists to whom they are referred confusing.
Ask the members of your treatment team about their role in your care. You can also ensure that there is open communication between the members of your treatment team by asking them to send your medical information to relevant clinicians in your treatment team, including your general practitioner. At different times in the treatment of the cancer,different treatment team members may be the main co-ordinator of your care. This person may be your general practitioner, surgeon or oncologist or another member of your treatment team. This role will change over time, so it is important to ask,if you are unsure, about who to contact regarding any concerns.
If you live outside a major city, your general practitioner or surgeon may discuss your treatment on your behalf with a medical or radiation oncologist to avoid unnecessary travel. You may meet the oncologist if your region provides an outreach service. Travel to a major centre will be necessary for radiotherapy. Chemotherapy can usually be provided where you live.
Below are some questions that you can ask your treatment team in order to establish the role of each member in your care:
- Who shall I call if I have a problem?
- Who should I contact out of regular hours if needed?
- Who will regularly review my health and any symptoms I have, such as pain?
- Does information about tests results and treatment go to all treatment team members?
- Do my treatment team members regularly meet or discuss my progress via telephone calls or letters?
- Who can organise social support services
- should I need them?
Feeling comfortable with your treatment team
You need to feel comfortable with your treatment team and that you are getting the information and support you need. It may take some time to establish a good relationship with your treatment team members, and for them to understand your needs. It is important to let your treatment team know of any particular concerns and priorities.
Looking after your emotional wellbeing should be part of your overall care. If you were previously diagnosed with an early breast cancer, you may decide that you wish to stay with the same surgeon, medical oncologist or radiation oncologist, or you may wish to be referred to another specialist or specialists for your care.
Obtaining a second opinion
You have the right to get a second opinion at any time. Having a second opinion can help clear up any questions, can help you decide which doctor you prefer to manage your treatment, and help you decide which course of treatment to follow.
