Auditioning New Oncologists

[MaineRottweilers]

Arg! My fabulous oncologist just told me that he's moving on. We are both really sad about it, we have a great relationship, but he has a fabulous opportunity and I don't want him to feel guilty about this change.

I would like to give him a gift, nothing extravagant but something meaningful. Any suggestions?

Now, the real problem. How do I search out a new oncologist? If I have to change, I do not wish to just settle for his replacement. What questions should I ask? What qualifications would you search out? I need a little help getting started. I did ask my MO who HE would take his wife to so I guess that's a starting place but I am going to audition a few before selecting. This is nerve wracking. Things were going so well.

[jaykay]

Ugh! I feel for you. I'd ask my other docs (breast surgeon, gyn, etc) and the question you asked "who would you send your wife/daughter to" is one I've used before. I would also make sure that the replacement is involved with research and clinical trials. And, of course, the final criteria - he/she makes you feel that you are the only patient they are seeing that day.

Gift - I'd do a contribution to the charity of your choice in his honor.

Good luck!

Janis

[thinkpositive]

Tracy,

I can imagine how it would feel to have to get a new oncologist. For me, the most important characteristic that I look for is communication skills. You interact with your oncologist on a regular basis and need to feel comfortable with how he/she will treat not only your cancer but how he/she will treat you. My oncologist is direct and doesn't sugar coat things. I like that. She also has great support staff that knows how to work through the insurance to get things approved quickly. In this day and age, the insurance issues can be a big deal so I do place a lot of importance on this.

As far as a gift goes, I find that heartfelt notes are always appreciated and are the most meaningful. Something that is homemade is also good (baked goods, something from your garden, etc).

I trust that you will find a new oncologist that you will be happy with.

Take care,
Brenda