Do you ever wonder why some oncologists are so bright and cheerful and optimistic with their patients while others are negative, discouraging and sometimes downright frightening. I call these others, “Play it safe doctors”. Their patients very rarely win because the doctor is afraid to take a chance. They want to play a no-lose game! If they are correct, and generally a patient will fulfill the physicians prognosis, they were right. If the patient does get better, Continue reading “Selecting a Doctor”
12 Questions For A Newly Diagnosed Cancer Patient To Ask Their Physician
The diagnosis of cancer literally knocks an individual off their feet. It is probably the first time in their lives they realized they were mortal – that they might possibly die, and from what we have been brought up to believe, in the not too distant future Continue reading “12 Questions For A Newly Diagnosed Cancer Patient To Ask Their Physician”
The Doctor Says…
Newly diagnosed cancer patients are sometimes told they are terminal with 3 or 6 months or a year or two to live. Why does the physician say this? Because, they say, they must be honest, they must be frank, and the patient and their family has a right to know and must prepare for death. The truth is that Continue reading “The Doctor Says…”
Physician-Patient Statement of Mutual Commitment
WE SUGGEST YOU DISCUSS THIS WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN
Cancer is a complex disease with numerous treatment options. Often there is only one opportunity for success. Effective treatment requires effort by both the patient and physician. A clear understanding of what each can expect of the other will help. Thoughts and feelings of the doctor are transmitted neurologically affecting the health of the patient. Continue reading “Physician-Patient Statement of Mutual Commitment”
Beware of Terminal Prognosis
Something new is happening and it is bad! I previously believed that when a physician told a newly diagnosed cancer patient they were terminal, the physician was unaware of what was available to treat that specific disease or was trying to protect their ego by forecasting the worst in which case there was no downside. If the patient fulfilled the prophecy, the physician was right and if the patient got well, they were the hero, accomplishing the impossible. Continue reading “Beware of Terminal Prognosis”