How important it is to let your oncologist know about family issues while at your yearly follow up visit?
Asked March 22, 2011
I was wondering how important it is to let your oncologist know about family issues going on in your life while at your yearly follow up visit? Is it of any importance at all, does everything need to be discussed even if it is more on a family issue not a medical issue? I am recently separated and most likely will be divorcing soon and wasn't sure if I really need to take time out of the normal yearly follow up to even discuss this new stress in my life... any advice on this is appreciated..
Thank you.
Expert answer
Hi, I think it is very important to discuss these issues with your oncologist and providers. From a therapeutic standpoint it simply makes sense to let your doctor know what is happening in your life. Sometimes not knowing what you are going through can be detrimental to your own health. Take for e.g: court dates, bankruptcy, other members needing surgery & etc - all of these can be a determinant as to whether or not you need blood booster shots or temporarily delaying the start date of chemotherapy as those events are quite important as well. While dealing with cancer your health becomes a primary issue; however, secondary issues can be as almost "life threatening" should not be undermined. Bottom line - talk to your doctor & figure out a solution together.
Thanks for your question!
Dr. Jag
Answered March 27, 2011
Hi, I think it is very important to discuss these issues with your oncologist and providers. From a therapeutic standpoint it simply makes sense to let your doctor know what is happening in your life. Sometimes not knowing what you are going through can be detrimental to your own health. Take for e.g: court dates, bankruptcy, other members needing surgery & etc - all of these can be a determinant as to whether or not you need blood booster shots or temporarily delaying the start date of chemotherapy as those events are quite important as well. While dealing with cancer your health becomes a primary issue; however, secondary issues can be as almost "life threatening" should not be undermined. Bottom line - talk to your doctor & figure out a solution together.
Thanks for your question!
Dr. Jag
Answered March 27, 2011
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