How to get a different oncologist

I had a horrendous first meeting with my oncologist, she was cold, lacking empathy and expressionless through the entire appointment. I had gone in thinking it was straightforward as I'd already decided to have chemotherapy. I left upset and not wanting any treatment at all.

I contacted my BC nurse about the appointment and asked her if I could have a different Dr. She said she'd look into it. But I'm no further along with that.

I honestly cannot have any contact with that Dr again, my mental health isn't good at the best of times and now it's hanging on by a thread. Having to see that Doctor when I'm at my most vulnerable, I'm not sure how I would cope.

Do you have any info on how I could request a different oncologist?

My chemotherapy is going to be in a different hospital and my BC nurse said I'd only have to see the Dr for updates in the clinic but even that I honestly could not cope with.

If i was in any doubt that I may have got it wrong 25mins into the appointment my sister had to be called in, and she felt the exact  same about the Oncologists manner.

Thank you x

Parents
  • Hello, and thanks for your post,

    I am really sorry to here about your situation. Most trusts do have two breast oncologists but a lot will depend on how big the hospital is and any staff shortages. 

    I would check back in with your breast care nurse (BCN) and see what they have arranged and if this is not forthcoming you could always talk to PALS to see if they can look into this for you. 

    If you are having your chemotherapy at a different hospital is it possible for you to see a different oncologist at this hospital. 

    I can understand that this is not something you want to think about just before you start chemotherapy but hopefully the BCN may be able to help you here.

    I am not sure from your post where you are living in the UK but if you are near a Maggie Centre you may find it helpful to access some of their services online and in person.

    It is so important that you get some support for yourself. Breast Cancer Now have a service called Someone Like Me where they can try and put you in touch with others in a similar situation. 

    You have posted in 'ask the nurses' but if you post on another thread you may find you get responses from other women in a similar situation.

    I do hope that you feel supported over the next few weeks.

    You are welcome to ring and chat through any of this with one of the nurses on the helpline.

    Our number is Freephone 0808 800 4040. We are here Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    Take care,

    Catherine

Reply
  • Hello, and thanks for your post,

    I am really sorry to here about your situation. Most trusts do have two breast oncologists but a lot will depend on how big the hospital is and any staff shortages. 

    I would check back in with your breast care nurse (BCN) and see what they have arranged and if this is not forthcoming you could always talk to PALS to see if they can look into this for you. 

    If you are having your chemotherapy at a different hospital is it possible for you to see a different oncologist at this hospital. 

    I can understand that this is not something you want to think about just before you start chemotherapy but hopefully the BCN may be able to help you here.

    I am not sure from your post where you are living in the UK but if you are near a Maggie Centre you may find it helpful to access some of their services online and in person.

    It is so important that you get some support for yourself. Breast Cancer Now have a service called Someone Like Me where they can try and put you in touch with others in a similar situation. 

    You have posted in 'ask the nurses' but if you post on another thread you may find you get responses from other women in a similar situation.

    I do hope that you feel supported over the next few weeks.

    You are welcome to ring and chat through any of this with one of the nurses on the helpline.

    Our number is Freephone 0808 800 4040. We are here Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    Take care,

    Catherine

Children