A cancer diagnosis can turn a person’s world upside down, especially if it is in its latter stages. However, most cancers today are treatable and can be cured if caught within their early stages. To help you get the proper treatments, you need to have an oncologist you can trust, and these tips can help you find one.
Select a Doctor for Your Cancer
Not all cancers are the same, so when you receive a diagnosis, you should ask what type of cancer you have. If your doctor isn’t sure, ask for recommendations to oncology doctors in your areas. You will probably be recommended to doctors who treat cancers in the general location where yours was discovered. However, depending on the cancer, you may then be referred to a specialist for the specific type of cancer you have.
Research the Doctors
Whether you have been referred to one doctor or several oncology doctors, you should take the time to look up their backgrounds. You can find out whether the doctors are board certified, whether they have had any disciplinary actions or malpractice claims made against them, and where and when they went to medical school. With a little research, you can confirm whether the oncologist is someone you would like to meet with to discuss your diagnosis.
Check with Your Insurance Company
Even though you have been referred to an oncologist for treatment, they may not be covered by your insurance, so you need to contact your insurance carrier before going to any doctor. If the doctor to whom you were referred isn’t covered by your insurance provider, ask them for recommendations of oncology doctors who are on your plan. If there isn’t another within your area, find out how to get treatments from the recommended doctor approved by your insurance.
