Oncologists, PET scans, second opinion

Hi,

I don't know if its me or you have removed your post, but I skimmed through it earlier but did not have the time to respond just then. How very frustrating it must be to have this uncalled for lack of good communication with the very doctors you rely on for your life!! I was initially dx with Stage 3b anal cancer in Jan. of 2011. In 2012 a pet scan revealed a rare breast cancer, and in Jan of 2015 a CTscan / x-ray / biopsy / confirmed mets of my initial anal cancer to my lung. I did have a thoracotomy (removal of my left lower lobe) followed by aggressive chemo and have been doing well since!

Fortunately I have a great rapport and good communication with my medical team and do trust them. I never feel rushed in my appointments and always comfortable asking questions as well as made to feel like any of my concerns are worth their time to explain. I have an ostomy as result of severe radiation damage with my initial treatment and while I live in a rural community my doctor had no problem contacting a specialist in Milwaukee (I live in Wi) to discuss our options as he admitted to wanting another opinion regarding reversal.

We should all have access to treatment from doctors who if "befuddled" have the sense to seek help themselves. You may want to check the guidelines for protocal treatment at NCCN and compare to how you are being followed in the future. There is variation on how some doctors follow, especially concerning scans and this is somewhat led by insurance coverage.

Thank you for the encouragement you offer to those who have been dx with later stage cancer, as it can be a scary thing to hear......I know! I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers that your patient-doctor relationship improves and that you are able to move forward in health!

katheryn