When to see the Medical Oncologist?

Veeder14

I haven't yet seen the Medical Oncologist or been referred that I know of. I started out with the surgeon, had surgery and I have a 3 month follow up appointment scheduled. Surgeon did drain seroma at post op appointment but no treatment plan was discussed. Surgeon then referred me to Radiation Oncology. I'm getting ready to start Radiation however I've got medical issues to get addressed and there's no one to help me. I've tried to work through the surgeon's office and all I get is a Nurse Practioner and RN that are of zero help.

I'm just so pissed off because when I was at the hospital on Monday (for the RADS consult), I also had an app't with the NP from the surgeon's office. She saw me last week also and was zero help then even re-diagnosing my seroma as a hematoma. I've begged to see the surgeon and Monday he was in the clinic, however neither the NP or RN would speak with him about my concern. RADS doctor said seroma would have to be drained on Monday or else after finishing RADS. So the perfect opportunity to get this taken care of and I just finally left after realizing neither contact from the surgeon's office would help me. Had the surgeon known the situation I'm sure he would have fit me in. So frustrated.

beach2beach

Hi Vedeer,

Wish I had more to offer you other than to see to keep calling to speak/see the surgeon and express that you need it to be done per the RADS dr. , plus you want to know if you should be scheduling an appt to see an MO and can they refer one etc. Sometimes getting past the staff is tough. I worked for many years in t^{he medical field and know that part well.}

I'm not sure how the protocol goes.I had surgery in August and had an appt with the MO in beginning of Sept. I knew I would have to see a MO and I was referred to one and had an appt based upon around the time I would have the results back from my Oncotype Dx test to see if chemo would be in the mix of treatment.

As frustrating as it is, I would continue to call until your needs are addressed. Is there a way to email the surgeon? I know some actually prefer contact that way.

Paco

Veeder14

How frustrating! I don't know when, or if, I will see the MO. The breast surgeon prescribed Tamoxifen and I already picked it up from the pharmacy. I was told to wait until radiation is over before I start taking it. My hospital does not have a central number or single person I go through to coordinate my care, so at this point, I assume the BS is my "navigator" so to speak. I wish they had someone to guide me but I noticed that if I have to make or change an appointment, I have to do that on my own.

Anonymous

Do you have a primary care physician? If so, get them to refer you to an oncologist if possible. I would want one on my team, if only to confirm that the treatment you got and are scheduled to receive is the right one. If not, can you simply choose one that has a good reputation and then call them on your own?

I sometimes think getting good treatment for ourselves is a full time job.

Hugs

Veeder14

This morning met with the Practice Manager of the Surgical Oncology to discuss all the issues with communication and coordination of treatment. I know the surgeon was not happy that his boss was contacted however he did write me an mail. He is making a referral to the Oncologist for me, and a referral to Interventional Radiology to ultrasound and drain the seroma. I don't like to complain but the surgeon would never know that his nurse and nurse practioner have been running me around in circles. Yes, I have a primary care doctor who is relatively new but the Radiation Oncologist is contacting my primary about getting a pain shot.

Yes, this stuff is a full time job, and one that I'm tired of doing!