CAREGIVER GUIDE
Keep a notebook with important details accessible to you and the patient - doctors, appointment dates, medications, test/scan dates and results, pathology reports, etc. Tracking additional items such as mood, sleep, eating habits, and pain levels may also be helpful. ZERO’s Newly Diagnosed Worksheet is a good starting point and can be found at the end of this guide . Don’t be afraid to repeat your questions or ask the doctors to repeat their responses, until you have a clear understanding. It may be helpful to ask the doctor to write down some of their responses, particularly for terms or medications that are difficult to pronounce or spell. It’s important to get these right in case you want to find out more information when you get home. Second Opinions Some people find it hard to tell their doctors that they’d like a second opinion. Seeking a second opinion following a prostate cancer diagnosis is common and doing so can make you feel more confident in treatment decisions. While it is most valuable to get a second opinion before beginning the initial treatment, it’s OK to get a second opinion at any point during care. A doctor shouldn’t discourage you from getting a second opinion. They should ENCOURAGE a second opinion. Before you start looking for a second opinion, contact your insurance company to find out what your policy covers. It’s important to give the new doctor(s) the exact details of the diagnosis and planned treatment, including the pathology report.
The important thing is that you and the patient feel comfortable with and confident in the doctors and the treatment decision. It is OK if it takes a second or even third opinion to get there!
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