Choosing a Hospital
When you select your surgeon, (s)he will be affiliated with one or more hospitals. Does the hospital have a cancer unit? Are there trained staff who work exclusively with cancer patients? Many hospitals have an interdisciplinary approach where teams of doctors and support personnel meet to discuss all aspects of your particular case.
Some encourage you to be present when your case is discussed. What kind of follow-up programs are available? Some hospitals provide online support during convalescence, counseling, support groups, nutritional coaching, and advice in choosing wigs and prostheses.
My surgery and chemotherapy took place at a hospital that had a cancer center. I chose to participate in a clinical trial and met ahead of time both the administrative nurse and the oncological nurse who would oversee my treatment. The center provided a social worker and a dietician for further support. Like a number of hospitals throughout the country, the facilities and personnel at the cancer center provided a comfortable atmosphere during a challenging time of my life.
