Patient Advocacy Corner Advocacy Tips
with Lori Sackett
Be organized. Write down questions or concerns before you meet with your team. Print out study information or data that might be pertinent. Take notes during the appointment. Bring someone with you to provide an additional pair of ears (but clearly define roles. Early on my husband wanted to dominate the appointment, and I had to remind him to save his questions to the end). Second and even third opinions can be very meaningful. Not every center approaches treatment in the same manner. Ask to confirm the dose and drug before you begin treatment in the clinical setting. I regrettably have had several situations of wrong dosage and drugs that were no longer part of my protocol. Be politely persistent. Getting lab results and answers can require diligence. Read about multiple myeloma. There is so much information that can help guide your path. Ask your provider for help if you are experiencing problems with insurance coverage.
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