What to Do After a Cancer Diagnosis

"You have cancer." For many people, these words are their greatest fear. But, there are things you can do when facing a cancer diagnosis that can help you prepare for the challenges to come. These five tips are collected based on the experiences of many who have fought their own battles with cancer.

Find the right doctor
It is important to find a doctor that you are confident will provide you with the best care possible. Some cancer patients will require the care of many doctors like a surgeon, an oncologist and a radiologist. Selecting the best doctor can be overwhelming. There may seem like there are too many to choose from or you may find your choices limited based on where you live or your financial resources. You can start by asking the doctor who diagnosed you for a referral to someone who specializes in treating people with your type of cancer. There are also websites that have information about doctors, their specialties and where they practice. It is important that you find a doctor who you can communicate with openly and who takes the time to answer all of your questions. When selecting a doctor, make sure that the doctor accepts your health insurance or will work with you to set up a payment plan that you can manage.

Learn more about your cancer
There are many resources available to help you understand more about your cancer diagnoses. You can learn about the different tests doctors use to diagnose your cancer or your treatment. Find sources of information that are credible, such as the National Cancer Institute, Lance Armstrong Foundation and American Cancer Society, that will provide accurate information. You can also ask your doctor to refer you to a good website or book. Some hospitals will have a health library or resource center with staff that will help you find the information you need. Always discuss what you learn with your doctor, ask questions and take notes. Understanding your cancer will help you be an active participant in your care and make decisions that are right for you.

Anticipate your financial needs
Treatment for cancer, even if you have health insurance, can put a strain on your finances. You may have to take time off work, and even if you qualify for disability payments, it may not cover all of your expenses. The prescriptions you need for treatment may not always be covered by your insurance. Talk to your health insurance company about your coverage and what your maximum out of pocket expenses for your care will be. The hospital won't be able to give you an exact estimate of what your bills will be, but they may be able to give you an idea of the expenses you could incur. Ask your doctor or hospital staff about payment plans or financial assistance programs to help with your medical bills. If you have difficulty paying for drugs, treatment or other costs you incur as a result of your cancer, contact LIVESTRONG SurvivorCare (866.467.7205) to speak to a social worker who can help you access resources or manage your debt.

Acknowledge the emotional impact
When you have just been diagnosed with cancer, you are required to make many important decisions. During this time it's easy to ignore the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis. Many newly diagnosed cancer patients feel anger, resentment, sadness and fear and it's important to acknowledge these emotions. Talking with others about how you feel can help release some of the stress these feelings can cause. You may choose to speak to a psychologist, social worker, support group or another cancer survivor who has shared a similar experience. If you aren't comfortable talking about these emotions with anyone, you might try an online support group or writing down your feelings in a journal. Also, be sure to tell your doctor how you are feeling emotionally and ask about resources he would recommend.

Accept help from friends and family
For many people, practical everyday challenges can be just as difficult as the physical and emotional challenges that come with cancer. You may need rides to and from your treatments. You may need help caring for your children or preparing meals. If so, it may be difficult to go through cancer treatment without the help of others. Anticipate what your needs might be and ask people for help ahead of time. This can reduce some of the stress in your life and give you more time to focus on yourself and your needs. Plus, it will give the people in your life a productive and useful way to show their support. Lotsahelpinghands.com is one example of a scheduling website you can use to coordinate your needs and those who wish to help.

References
Cohen, Elizabeth. "After cancer diagnosis, what comes next?" Cnn.com. May 22, 2008.
http://www.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/conditions/05/21/ep.cancer.resources/index.html.

Creagan, M.D., Edward T. "Cancer diagnosis? Advice for dealing with what comes next."
MayoClinic.com. July 16, 2007. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cancer-diagnosis/HQ00379.

Mayo Clinic Staff. "Cancer diagnosis: 10 tips for coping" MayoClinic.com. September 10, 2007. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cancer-diagnosis/HQ01306.