How do I find a new oncologist for my mom?

dianewpt
dianewpt Member Posts: 2
in Breast Cancer #1

Two weeks ago they discovered that my mom has Stage IV breast cancer. It's in her liver and there's a new cancer in her remaining breast. I'm confused about how this is playing out. My parents were both dazed when recounting what the oncologist said, but my mom insists she told her she has six to eight months to live. No one is discussing treatment. She had a CT scan on Tuesday and no one called to go over the results. The liver biopsy they scheduled is over two weeks away. It feels like they've just dropped this bomb on her and then left her alone to sort it out. I've been trying to research a lot and I know there are several treatment options. I've also read about the importance of having a pro-treatment, proactive oncologist. I'm not in the same city as my folks, but I will be visiting in a couple weeks. It feels to me like she needs a different oncologist. If that's the case, how do I go about finding one? She's in Colorado Springs. I would so value the advice of the wise women on this forum. 

Comments

  • Elaine_wi
    Elaine_wi Member Posts: 124 Member
    edited May 2021 #2
    Authorization to Release Information Form

    If your mom will agree to have you be able to speak with her oncologist directly and view her medical records, she can fill out an authorization form which is available through her healthcare system. It's sometimes hard to hear and absorb everthing a doctor is saying when the patient is in state of shock. That way you'll have accurate information which will be helpful if you want to seek out a second or third opinion.

  • dianewpt
    dianewpt Member Posts: 2
    edited May 2021 #3
    Elaine_wi said:

    Authorization to Release Information Form

    If your mom will agree to have you be able to speak with her oncologist directly and view her medical records, she can fill out an authorization form which is available through her healthcare system. It's sometimes hard to hear and absorb everthing a doctor is saying when the patient is in state of shock. That way you'll have accurate information which will be helpful if you want to seek out a second or third opinion.

    Authorization to Release Info Form

    Thanks for that. I have had her fill out that form, but because of the holiday I haven''t been able to speak to anyone yet. I guess my main concern is what resources there are to find recommended oncologists in the area for a second opinion. I'm planning to speak to her doctor as soon as possible, but this is all such new terrain for me. I feel like finding another oncologist would be arbitrarily picking one from a list. I wish I knew how to find one who is known for being proactive and protreatment. Her brain scan and bone scan came back clear. But I'm worried this doctor has killed her spirit. She seems resigned to die now. 

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