Navigating Your Cancer Diagnosis

The word “cancer” is a term for abnormal or damaged cell growth that becomes more abundant over time. Cancer may come in the form of solid tumors or can manifest in the blood. The news that you or someone close to you has cancer can cause ripples of disruption and a flood of emotions. Feelings of shock, denial, fear, anger and uncertainty are normal responses. After the initial shock, as you start to process the news, you may want to jump on the internet to find your miracle. While searching the web, be cautious of the sites you browse; many contain inaccurate information. Keep in mind that information tends to be generalized, rather than tailored to your specific condition, and can sometimes create unnecessary fear. Focus on steps you can take to prepare for your first appointment with your cancer team, such as gathering relevant information and making a list of questions. We recommend the “GAP” approach—Gather, Ask, Plan—the three steps for success. Gather as much information about yourself, your family and your new specialist as you can. It is vital to be open and honest with the information you provide your doctor because that will keep you safe and improve your outcome.

Tips on what to gather:

g Call your insurance company for details about copay fees, out-of-pocket maximums and your deductible. Ask if any new specialists are in-network or accept self-pay if you don’t have insurance.

g Have all your medical records transferred to your cancer team ahead of time.

g Make a list of your medical, surgical and family history, including dates, ages and conditions.

g List all your medications, herbs and supplements with dosage information.

g Keep a journal of symptoms with dates. Rate each one on a scale of 0 to 10 (with 0 being “no complaint” and 10 being “severe”).

g Record and prioritize your concerns.

g Any substance use or abuse is important to include. This information is not reported but helps to keep you safe.

g Inform the provider’s office if you have any limitations or handicaps, such as vision, physical or mental health issues.

g Tell your provider if you require an interpreter so they can make accommodations for extra time and resources.

g Arrive early to appointments; call ahead and get information on address, directions and parking instructions. Find out if the doctor allows you to record the visit, and ask how many visitors you can bring as well. It is important to have at least one companion join you so they can take notes and ensure all your questions are asked and answered.

KRISTI PYLE, RN, MSN, OCN

SARAH CANNON BREAST CANCER NURSE NAVIGATOR WITH ST. DAVID’S

g Ask is the next step towards success. Patients who are prepared in advance and ask more questions generally have higher satisfaction with their visit and better outcomes. Ask your cancer specialist for a nurse navigator to be assigned to you to help prepare and guide you through each step of your journey. Nurse navigators assist with barriers to care and education, and also provide resources. As you come up with questions, write them down immediately. You can anticipate many calls and appointments being made, and it is very easy to forget your questions.

g Plan is the final step towards success. Review what has been discussed, make sure you’re clear on things that may be hard to understand, set some goals, arrange for diagnostic tests and begin pursuing your treatment plan. Communication with your cancer team is crucial, so building a strong relationship is the cornerstone. Get to know the support staff, including who to call for questions or concerns.

g The compassionate team at St. David’s HealthCare is here to provide comprehensive cancer care. As part of Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Institute of HCA Healthcare providing cancer treatment across the U.S. and U.K., we are able to offer you access to world-class cancer treatments and support. From diagnosis through recovery, the oncologists at our hospitals are here to walk with you on your journey. For more information, visit stdavids.com/ specialties/oncology

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