At some point, there is a good chance that you may have to search for a new oncologist (a doctor who specializes in cancer). This may be because of a move to a new location or due to a change in health insurance, or because your doctor has moved or retired.
Coping with finding a new oncologist
Many cancer survivors develop a strong, long-term relationship with their oncologist. You may feel that your oncologist understands both you and your health history. You likely trust and count on the support you receive from your doctor and the office staff; the idea of losing this support may be upsetting. You may be anxious about having to review all the details of your cancer diagnosis and treatment with a new doctor and concerned about becoming familiar with a new office staff. You may worry that you will not be able to find a new oncologist that you like and trust as much as the one you have now.
While it can take time to establish a new relationship with a doctor, there are steps you can take to find a new oncologist whom you will feel comfortable with and trust.
Locating a new oncologist
The first step is coming up with a list of potential doctors. When asking for recommendations, be sure to ask for those who specialize in or have experience treating your type of cancer.
- Ask your current oncologist and primary care physician to recommend doctors in your area or in the area you will be moving to.
- Call your health plan's member services line and ask for a list of oncologists.
- Most hospitals have a physician referral service. Call the local hospitals and ask for referrals.
- Ask for recommendations from friends or acquaintances who have had cancer.
- If you belong to a cancer support group, other members may be able to give you recommendations. Or, if you are moving, call the local hospitals or do an online search to identify a support group in your new area.
- The National Cancer Institute (NCI) maintains a list of NCI-designated cancer centers that specialize in cancer research. Your nearest cancer center can provide information on oncologists who practice at that center.
- There are a number of searchable online physician directories that can assist you, including:
Narrowing down your list
Once you have a list of potential oncologists, you may want to consider the following when narrowing down your choices.
- What are the doctor's credentials? Is he or she board certified in oncology?
- What is the doctor's education, training, years in practice, and experience with your type of cancer?
- How many patients with your type of cancer does the doctor see each year?
- Does the doctor participate in your insurance plan? Is the doctor accepting new patients?
- How convenient are the office hours and location?
- Is there supportive staff in the office?
- How easy is it to get an appointment with or to speak to the doctor?
- Who handles emergencies when the doctor is unavailable?
Additional questions to consider are listed in Choosing a Doctor.
You may be able to obtain some information from the source of your referral, or you may want to contact the doctor's office. You may also want to call a few oncologists to schedule a consultation to meet the doctor and the office staff. If you currently live too far away to meet in person, you may be able to talk with the doctor on the telephone. Keep in mind that you may be charged for the doctor's time and that charge may not be covered by your health insurance.
As well as getting answers to practical questions, you will get a sense of the doctor's communication and practice styles. Take note of how comfortable you felt with each oncologist, including factors like whether the doctor talked to you in a way you could understand, and whether he or she encouraged and answered your questions.
All the information you gather will help you decide which doctor is right for you. Trust your instincts and remember that it may take time for you and your new oncologist to develop a comfortable relationship. Also remember that, if after some time you are not happy with your choice, you have the tools to switch to a different doctor.
Information your new oncologist will need
Once you have chosen a new oncologist, you will need to arrange to have your medical records transferred from your current doctor's office. Ask the office staff what procedures you need to follow. Normally, you will be required to give written permission allowing the office to copy and transfer you records. You may also want to ask for a copy of your records for you own reference. If possible, ask for a copy of your medical records on a CD. Some offices may charge you a fee to copy your records for personal use.
Resources to help you track your medical history are listed below.
Additional resources
American Cancer Society (ACS): Choosing Your Doctor and Doctor Search
National Cancer Institute (NCI): How To Find a Doctor or Treatment Facility If You Have Cancer
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality: Choosing a Doctor
Resources for tracking your medical history
Cancer.Net: Medical Forms
ACS: Tools to Monitor Treatment
MayoClinic.com: Cancer Records Checklist (pdf)
Lance Armstrong Foundation: Cancer Survivor's Medical Treatment Summary (pdf) and Cancer Survivor's Health Journal (pdf)
More Information
Cancer.Net: Managing Your Care
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