By now you have probably seen the commercial by a global health service company about the importance of talking openly and honestly to your doctor. The commercial is very well done, using recognizable cultural icons that appeal to all ages. Their message is clear – You should schedule an annual check up and be open about everything in your physical and emotional health. In some cases this is easier said than done but lets discuss ways to make your visits more impactful to your total health.
For people going through cancer treatment it is often very difficult to fit in every question and physical concern during a visit so the emotional concerns take a back seat. Patients don’t want to “complain” or take up their doctor’s time. However, since science shows a strong connection between physical and emotional health it is important to remember that treating your “whole being” is very important during cancer treatment. Your doctor does really want to know how you are doing in all aspects of mind and body.
As doctors are tight on time during office hours due to the many sick patients that they are fitting in to their schedules it is very important to remember that well-timed and organized visits will provide the best outcome for all involved. You will feel empowered going into an appointment with a prepared list of questions and discussing the main things that are bothering you. By staying on task you will feel that you got more out of the appointment, as will your doctor.
It is also very important when you are going through cancer treatment to find a trusted family member or friend to act as an advocate and attend appointments with you, take notes and listen to what is said. Very many times as patients our minds shut off during an appointment due to the overwhelming information that is given. By having your advocate keep a file or a notebook on dates, medications taken and exact dosages, things that are discussed in appointments and answers to questions you will have a very good reference to look back on. Having someone to help you stay organized is invaluable during this journey.
Another good way to discuss your physical and emotional health is with your nurse at Mission Hope. The nurses are an important part of your team and many people feel more comfortable discussing certain issues with a trusted nurse. The nurses communicate directly with your doctor and want to be sure that they are treating all of your symptoms to make your cancer treatment go as smoothly as possible.
Once you talk openly and honestly with your team about your concerns, Mission Hope is equipped with high quality resources for the mind-body connection often overlooked in cancer care. If you aren’t on the newsletter-mailing list sign up for that immediately.
Once you talk openly and honestly with your team about your concerns, Mission Hope is equipped with high quality resources for the mind-body connection often overlooked in cancer care. If you aren’t on the newsletter-mailing list sign up for that immediately.
Watch the newsletter for the special events where great speakers come in and discuss helpful topics or teach you new things.
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Make an appointment with the social worker that can guide you on the classes and connections that might be right for you. Ask to have an appointment with a counselor or psychologist. Call Ashley Hahn, LCSW Oncology Social Worker in Santa Maria 805-346-3402 or Jenni Davis, Patient Advocate in Arroyo Grande 805-474-5303
Make an appointment to see the dietitian. Sometimes just changing your diet improves some of the physical symptoms, which in turn can possibly fix some of the emotional. Call Colleen Seung, RDN at 805 346-3403
The exercise classes are another great way to take some control back of your health and meet great people while doing it. Call John Malinowski, ATC, CET at 805-346-3413
Have questions about your diagnosis or treatments? Our Nurse navigators can help
Julie Neiggemann, MSN, RN | Breast and GYN Oncology Navigation | 805-346-3405
Sean Hunt | Nurse Navigator, RN, BSN, OCN / Survivorship / Men’s Groups | 805-346-3401
Carol Lowe RN, OCN | Nurse Navigator / Chemotherapy Education / Lung Cancer Screening Program | 805-346-3463
Carol Dichmann, RN, BSN | Oncology Nurse Navigator Arroyo Grande| 805-474-5302
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