Previously published in Kevin MD. May 23, 2016. I would have graduated from medical school this year. That’s right. Just like you, I’d be getting ready to move to another city and take up residence at an academic medical center to begin my clinical training. Things don’t always work out the way we planned—like Lenny… Continue Reading
Everyone has a story. Colin’s story is not just about his journey through a cancer diagnosis and ultimately, his death. Patients succumb to the brutal effects of cancer every day, and families are left in the aftermath to pick up the pieces. However, Colin, and thousands of cancer patients like him, go to their deaths… Continue Reading
Previously published in Kevin MD March 30, 2017. Everyone immersed in the culture of medicine knows that physicians sometimes defer the discussion about prognosis to patients who are battling a life threatening illness. Everyone, that is, except the patient. We arrive on your doorstep believing that our presence indicates the obvious. So, how are we… Continue Reading
Not surprisingly, health care professionals sometimes procrastinate when it comes to telling their patients about a poor prognosis. Perhaps they too, like their patients, tend to be overly optimistic in their judgement when presented with a dismal prognosis. Who doesn’t want their patient to be one of the lucky ones to survive the odds? Consequently,… Continue Reading
If you ever find yourself in the unfortunate situation of facing a terminal cancer diagnosis, would you want your doctor to tell you ? When would you want to know? Early enough to do a few things you may have wanted to accomplish in life? Or, at the very end of the progression of the… Continue Reading
To Patients and Caregivers, Patients have a voice in patient centered care. This is your forum to make your voices heard. Tell us what you like, what you don’t like, and why. You will be helping future patients who follow in your footsteps. Question of the Month If you could give advice to a new… Continue Reading
Do you feel that your doctor did a good job communicating with you about your prognosis, treatment plan, and possible complications you may encounter during your illness? What would be your suggestions for improvement if you could make them anonymously? Comments contributed by Melanoma Warriors online. Continue Reading
Due to new federal regulations, hospitals are adopting new standards that reflect quality and patient centered care. If you were facing a life-threatening illness such as cancer, would you be interested in attending a cancer treatment orientation class at the hospital where you will receive treatment? If so, what topics would you like to see… Continue Reading