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Obligated to continue with doctor?

Page last modified on: September 10, 2008
Question from Bella: Once I commence treatment with one doctor, am I obliged to continue with him or her?
Answer —Jennifer Griggs, M.D., M.P.H.: No. But make sure that you're not contemplating a change in doctors because you don't like the news the doctor gave you. In other words, changing because a physician had to tell you bad news will just increase the stress in your life. On the other hand, finding the right doctor is a lot like finding a life partner. I always tell my patients, 'We don't marry the first person we date, and we can't expect to always click with the first doctor.' It is critical that you feel you're getting the best care for you. Sometimes switching to another physician can help you cope with the cancer and its treatment more effectively.

On Wednesday, February 19, 2003, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called The Doctor-Patient Relationship. Jennifer Griggs, M.D., M.P.H. and Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about how to find the right doctor for you, and how to create and maintain a good, open relationship with your doctor so you can be sure to get all the care and information you need.

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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Meet the Experts

Jennifer Griggs, M.D., M.P.H.Jennifer Griggs, M.D., M.P.H. is a medical oncologist specializing in the treatment of breast cancer, with a a special interest in cancer survivorship, patient-physician communication, and quality of care for women with breast cancer.

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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