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Time to switch from forgetful doctor?

Page last modified on: August 1, 2008
Question from Nie: My oncologist never calls me with test results — I have to call. He also forgets what chemo I've already had. But he behaved better in the beginning of my illness. Does it mean that he already "gave up" on me? Should I just find another doctor?
Answers —Larry Norton, M.D.: I'm impressed that many people don't realize that they are the consumer. The doctor is there to help you. If you're not getting what you need, it's your right to find another doctor who will give you want you need. Asking for test results on time, and a doctor who's knowledgeable about your case is a reasonable request, and you have the right to obtain those services.
Marisa Weiss, M.D., president and founder: For women with metastatic disease, your situation might change over the years. You may have moved to another city, you may have changed your philosophical approach to your care, your priorities may have shifted, your relationships may have changed as well. All along the way you may also want to reevaluate who's on your health care team and if they're meeting your needs in a way that gives you confidence and hope and optimism about the future. Our book “7 Minutes!” (the average time people have with their doctors during follow-up) is being launched next month at breastcancer.org. It's a book derived from a performance I did called "Doctor, Doctor, Lend Me Your Ear." It’s about how to get the most out of the short time you may have with your doctor. How do you address this sacred relationship that's inherently lopsided to provide the best care?

On Wednesday, October 17, 2007 our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer. Larry Norton, M.D. and moderator Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about managing day-to-day life with metastatic breast cancer.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.

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Meet the Experts

Larry Norton, M.D.Larry Norton, M.D. is deputy physician-in-chief and director of Breast Cancer Programs at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.

Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.

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