My ONC won't call me back!

Be the squeeky wheel. Go the the office.

Sparrow, keep calling!  I have a story for you.  I saw my onc for my six month follow-up visit a few weeks ago.  Her nurse called me a few days later to tell me that my liver enzymes were a bit high, and to come back in for another blood draw.  I did that, but didn't hear back from her office regarding my results.  I called for info and they told me the results hadn't come back from the lab.  I called again two days later--same response.  I had a feeling something wasn't quite right, but waited several more days.  I called again today, and the triage nurse called me back and apologized.  Apparently, there wasn't enough of a sample to do the test on.  I had to go back in for another blood draw today.  They wouldn't have ever called me!  I'm so glad I kept pressing.  My brother says that you have to be "the pimple on their asses" in order to get results.  Be that pimple!!!!!

Hugs,

Karen

Your life is precious and you are the paying customer so you should not have to deal with this baloni. But maybe they are waiting for oncotype dx results? If so, the nurse should say that and reset your expectations rather than keep you waiting. It isn't always easy dealing with doctors offices and sometimes you have to be very clear and very specific in what you want. If that does not work, change oncos. I'm sure there are dozen others in your area whoare equally reputed and accredited with NCCN etc.

Sparrow:

I don't think they're doing right by you. 

My rad oncologist called me after my first day at 9 o'clock at night to ask how I was doing.  The techs apparently told her I was really nervous when I went in for my fit and marking.  I never said boo to them, but they figured it out.  She told me I was a model patient, everything went great - she wanted to reassure me and make sure I was OK physically and emotionally.

My breast surgeon called me at 7 o'clock on a Friday night to tell me what the final node biopsy results were so I didn't have to wait the weekend.  What...?

I thought they both went above and beyond, but they didn't - they knew what I was going through.  You should at least expect a call back during office hours! 

Go be a Super Pest and bring someone with you (A back-up Super Pest is always good and s/he can take notes for you.)  Even doctors within the same practice can be very different, so don't be shy about changing if you need to.  My first med onc interview was a complete bust - I said to myself NO WAY - this person is scary.  I went to another onc in the practice and she is amazing and kind - and since we're going to continue to work together over at least the next 5 years, I needed to have someone I have confidence in.  I know you are probably discouraged and frustrated, but hang in there.  Best of luck. 

Be good to you -

Not unreasonable at ALL! I would be FURIOUS! Either geta  new ONC or keep calling, and then get one. File a complaint with Licencing Board! zThat is ridiculous, not to mention neglectful and inconciderate.

I changed my onc, and am so very happy I did!  It has very literally changed my world.

I think you need to find a Dr who makes you feel good, and part of that is going to have to include prompt responses from the Dr and/or staff.  I know onc's have busy and tight schedules, my new one certainly does, but your questions and concerns are real.

The distress you are feeling is a part of all of this for everyone, as far as I can see... and given your family history, I know this is especially hard.

 From what I've read through my own research, your onc should expect, look for, understand, and address your feelings of distress and do whatever possible to minimize the stress you are going through.

 Put more faith in your feelings than the NCI designation.  The fact is, this particular onc is not taking good care of you.

 And if it would help to see your test scores and path reports for now... go in to the office asap and ask to speak directly with the person who can make copies of your reports while you wait.

Good Luck, Sparrow,

Lynne

That's absolutely unacceptable, imho! You're handling this with much more grace than I would have. If they don't return your calls by tomorrow, I'd visit the office and definitely ask for copies of all the reports. Your oncologist should be making you feel comfortable and easing the treatment process as much as possible.

GL!

katsy 

Awesome news Sparrow♥♥