What is an ECOG score?
It describes a patient’s level of functioning in terms of their ability to care for themselves, daily activity, and physical ability (walking, working, etc.).
Why aren’t tumor markers drawn every visit?
Tumor markers (like PSA, CA 125, CA 15-3, and CA 19-9) aren’t as reliable as most people think, and they can sometimes fluctuate widely for no apparent reason. Used inappropriately (either too often or for the wrong types of cancer situation) and tumor markers can create a lot of confusion, unnecessary testing, and unhelpful stress […]
Do I need supervision after treatments?
Not usually. If you were well enough before treatment to live independently (including shopping and preparing food, maintaining a safe home environment, etc.) you shouldn’t need close supervision afterwards.
When will we know if the treatment is working?
It usually takes two to three months to know for sure, though in some cases (particularly if the tumor or tumors can be felt easily) we may be able to tell after one month. For some blood cancers (especially acute leukemia) we may be able to tell after only a few weeks.
Can I drink alcohol during treatment?
It depends greatly on the exact treatment you’re receiving. Many patients are still able to drink alcohol in moderation during cancer treatment. But some radiation and chemotherapy treatments can make alcohol taste bad. Alcohol may make nausea worse. And if you’re being treated for head and neck cancer or esophageal cancer, drinking alcohol may even […]
Do I still need to see my primary care provider or are you my primary care provider now?
You’ll still need a primary care provider to help manage your other medical issues. Your primary care provider is going to manage things like diabetes, hypertension, and cholesterol better than your cancer care team, just like your cancer care team is going to manage your cancer care better than your primary care team.
How do I apply for disability?
You can apply for disability on the Social Security website. If you have an Aging and Disability Resource Center in your county, they will also be able to help you.
What if you’re out-of-network for me?
If your insurance is out-of-network with a facility it is in your best interest to find a facility that is in-network. Some insurance plans have out-of-network benefits, but many do not. Even if you have an out-of-network benefit you will still be responsible for high out-of-pocket costs. Many healthcare facilities will require upfront payments from […]
What do I do if I don’t have insurance?
If you don’t have insurance let your provider’s office know right away. Ultimately the best thing is to find insurance that will cover you to help ease any financial burden. Ask your clinic if they have someone who can work collaboratively with you or have a resource to help you. You should receive price estimates […]
I’m losing my insurance, now what?
The first thing to do is notify your healthcare provider. There are many options that can be reviewed to determine what will be best for you. Some of the options include COBRA coverage through your current employer, a Marketplace plan, and Medicaid (depending on diagnosis, income, and assets). There may be resources within your community […]
