[G. Ann]

My HMO oncologist has only physically examined me twice--at the initial intake visit when I was healing from the mastectomy and 2 years later when I told him I thought I had another lump. My "hands on" exams are done by the surgeon or the OB/GYN. For my oncology office visits, blood pressure is taken, occasionally temperature, and current lab work discussed. Two other women I know at the same HMO but seeing a different oncologist have had same experience. I'm wondering if oncologists do physical exams as a routine office visit.

Hope you find a good response to your concerns.