Knowledge Is Empowerment

As a society, we tend to put all of our trust and hope in our doctors and medical support teams.  When a serious diagnosis is delivered they are the first people we turn to. What we sometimes forget is that choosing a doctor and working with a medical team is like choosing a lifelong friend – we should be able to connect on many levels to forge a strong supportive relationship. If your current doctor is the best at what he does, that expertise may not translate into him necessarily being the best choice to share in your treatment.

Every patient is unique – in diagnosis, treatment and recovery.  It is important for patients to know that there are options available for different methods of treatment and medial support.  Knowledge about the topic is your strongest advocate during the process and can help to empower you to seek the right support systems. Gloria Steinem said it best – “Power can be taken, but not given. The process of the taking is empowerment in itself.” Making the decision to change doctors, treatment centers or support groups can be difficult but ultimately you have the power to make the change.

Below are some common misconceptions about cancer care and what your options are.

Misconception #1 – Once you start treatment you have to continue with the same medical team. After starting treatment there is no rule that says you have to continue with the “start-up” team. If you are not happy or comfortable with your doctor start looking for someone else! And remember this is your treatment – take charge! Ask questions and use the resources that are available to you.

Misconception #2 – My doctor is the best in this field. He is the best choice even though I don’t fell 100% comfortable with him.

WRONG! The patient-doctor relationship is very important in on-going care. The patient needs to feel comfortable with the doctor and trust that they have their best interest at heart.  In addition to the physically taxing repercussions of treatment, there is an emotional component. Trust and camaraderie throughout the treatment process reduces stress and allows the patient to focus on recovery.

Misconception #3 – My doctor is the only person who can answer my questions about treatment.

There are so many resources in hospitals that patients do take advantage of. For instance, if you have questions about a treatment or procedure that you don't have the chance to discuss with the doctor, there are Nurse Navigators in hospitals that are trained to answer your questions.  Nurse navigators support patients in choosing and understanding treatments, procedures and finding the best doctor for the their situation.  

It is every bit as important to understand your treatment and take charge of all of the variables as it is to focus on recovery. The path to survivorship starts the day of diagnosis.