Vets Should Lean on Care Team for Guidance
- There are often many options for testing and treatment for prostate cancer, which can leave you confused and anxious about making the right decision.
- A care team, which may consist of different doctors and specialists, nurses, and other cancer center employees, can help put your mind at ease as you make these treatment decisions.
- The care team helps empower you with the information you need regarding your cancer care, taking into account your lifestyle, treatment goals, and the cancer itself.
- Don’t hesitate to reach out to your care team if you need assistance.
Navigating the different decisions you need to make after your diagnosis and deciding on what treatments to have can be a daunting task. At the VA, members of your care team are all experts that work in a variety of different medical and healthcare specialties. They’re there to help guide you through the complex and important decisions you need to make.
Read MoreWhat is a care team?
Your care team will include a variety of different healthcare professionals and medical specialists. Who is on your team depends on your case and the type of treatment you need, but may include some or all of the following:- Urologists: Doctors specializing in diagnosis and treatment of urinary system diseases. They are also often surgeons.
- Radiation Oncologists: Doctors that use radiation therapy to treat cancer.
- Medical Oncologists: These are specialists that uses medications (like hormone therapy and chemotherapy) to treat cancer.
- Clinical Care Coordinator: Think of your clinical care coordinator as your personal air traffic controller. They will help you coordinate appointments, schedule tests, provide information regarding essential financial and emotional resources, and generally act as a recourse for any help you need during your care.
- Registered Nurse: RNs are professionals who can answer questions, take medical histories, obtain your vital measurements, and offer guidance.
Depending on your care, there may be other healthcare professionals on your team. Each and every one plays a vital role in your cancer care. - Pathologists: Experts who analyze tissue samples to confirm the cancer diagnosis and its characteristics.
- Mental Health Experts: Professionals providing mental health support, helping you cope with the emotional aspects of cancer treatment.
- Dietitians or Nutritionists: Specialists offering dietary advice to support your health and well-being during treatment.
- Physical Therapists: Experts who assist in maintaining or improving physical function impacted by cancer or its treatment.
- Social Workers: They provide additional support, including access to community resources, financial counseling, and assistance with healthcare navigation.
- Pharmacists: Professionals who manage and advise on your medication regimen.
What does my care team do?
Your care team helps with many aspects of your treatment. Every part of the team has a different role to play, but they all communicate and work together to make sure you get the treatment you need.After getting your diagnosis, you will have your first meeting with your care team. They’ll explain the potential treatment options and answer any questions you may have.
Throughout your cancer journey, your team will help you navigate the healthcare system and manage symptoms. They will offer psychological support and help you plan long-term follow-up care to monitor your health post-treatment. Their goal is to ensure you are well-informed and comfortable with your care plan.
Getting a cancer diagnosis is never easy. Your care team is there to ensure your experience is as smooth as possible.
Dr. Michael Zelefsky, a radiation oncologist at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, has this to say about the importance of having a care team behind you, “Understanding the different aspects of the disease, understanding the impact that it could have on quality of life and then addressing it with a therapy that they’re comfortable with, I think will give them great solace and great peace of mind knowing that they’re going in a direction that they’re comfortable with.”
How does my care team help me make treatment decisions?
Often, there will be several types of available treatment for your prostate cancer. The specific treatments recommended will vary based on how aggressive your prostate cancer is, what your treatment goals are, and your overall health. Having a discussion with your care team can help you decide on the best course of action.
For example, you may be presented with surgery and radiation as two equally effective options that carry different side effects. Your team can explain the pros and cons of each to help you decide which makes sense for you.
Another choice you may be presented with is sometimes called “watch and wait”. This means your doctor will continue to observe the cancer but not treat it.
While letting cancer sit there and taking no action can be a scary idea, your care team will help you understand if it’s the right way to go in your case. Prostate cancer often grows slowly and is unlikely to cause problems. On the other hand, most treatments have side effects that can be hard to manage. Your care team will lay out all the pros and cons of watch and wait versus treatment so you can feel comfortable with whatever you decide.
Additionally, if your cancer returns, the treatment options may change. Having a care team helps you continue to make the best decisions every step of the way.
What does this all mean for me?
If you or a loved one are diagnosed with prostate cancer and seeking treatment at the VA, reach out to members of your care team to discuss a variety of topics ranging from treatment options and their efficacy, potential side effects of treatment, financial resources, and more.
Your care team is there to help you make decisions regarding your care and treatment. They’re here for you. Don’t hesitate to ask them for help.
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