Losing my med onc - bummed!!!

Barbara H. · 06-19-2006, 01:56 PM

Steph,
I know how you feel. I have been with my oncologist for 8 years and now he is going to the satellite hospital of Dana Farber. I can still see him, but only on Wednesdays, and that is the day he wants me to receive my treatment. I feel that the relationships that we build with our onclologists are so important considering the seriousness of our disease. I hope that you will find someone you feel comfortable with but it could take some time. You might be fortunate, because I connected to my neurosurgeon immediately.
Good luck,
Barbara H.

Berta · 06-19-2006, 06:13 PM

Steph: i know how hard adjusting to a new onc can be. Mine left during my chemo and I have had rent-a-docs ever since. I've had so many I don't remember them all. I live in rural Southern Indiana. However, i have found that its the nurses that really stay on top of stuff and provide for the continuity of care, at least what there is and the docs are all obligated to follow protocols as set by the onc group in Indianapolis. I have had excellent treatment, I think and began herceptin in July of 05 so they have stayed up to date but it is hard to change docs when you feel so dependent upon them to help you fight this thing. Berta

mamacze · 06-19-2006, 08:52 PM

Oh Stephanie,
You shine through your most recent set backs and now this. You must feel so frustrated that the one person you literally trust your life with is moving away.
You have a good head on your shoulders and you network well so I have no doubt that you already have some alternatives in mind. If push comes to shove, however, you may consider giving Nora Disis a call and get some thoughts from her. Good luck angel girl.
Love Kim from CT

chrisy · 06-19-2006, 09:09 PM

Oh Steph - that is a bummer! You have been through SO much, and have been lucky enough to work with an entire team of wonderful doctors who know you, and who you trust - (literally) with your life. I lost my "wonderful" oncologist suddenly and unexpectedly - he died of a heart attack at age 42. I felt like an orphan. Tap into some recommendations from the rest of your "team" - and I like you taking the opportunity to discuss this with your onc who is leaving. This relationship is so much more than a simple doctor/patient one! Best of luck to you in finding another wonderful doctor - as I know you will!
Chris

RobinP · 06-20-2006, 03:38 PM

I am loosing my oncologist too soon and Iam on the hunt for a good new one in upstate NY.

StephN · 06-20-2006, 05:56 PM

Thanks, everyone for your thoughts and encouragement. Sorry some others are also seeking new docs - it IS the PITS.
I do have a little more info to go on now, as I have been nosing around a bit into the inner workings and other changes to come. Such as the Nurse Case Manager, Scheduler and other support staff to my med onc who is leaving. He has such a great team and I also know them all since the beginning.
The infusion suite nurses are great and they have also fed me a little info.

So, I am still sorting through the possibilities here. There is no question of changing treatment centers, though I could, as we have a couple of other good ones locally.

Will keep you posted.

Demack · 06-20-2006, 08:39 PM

Hi Steph,

I know how you feel. My Med Onconogist retired this month. He is wonderful and got me through the main part of my treatment. I am still on Herceptin every week, but he transferred me to a great someone he knew and trusted.
I really miss him. He was like having my own personal MD. He also adjusted my treatment plan just for me.
Good luck finding a new doctor. Trust the nurses and othe staff. They know a lot about the doctors and treatments,
Debbie