Hi when I met my oncologist yesterday he mentioned that I might be able to have some of my chemotherapy delivered at home (apparently it is cheaper for the insurance company!) - not the first round, but if all is well it could be after that. Has anyone else experienced this? Are there any downsides?
I haven’t done this myself, but my father did - he had 6 rounds of Tax for bladder cancer. They have to come two days in a row - the first day they take bloods etc, then if all ok come back the next day to do the chemo. He found it very easy - although it is a bit odd having two nurses hanging around for hours.
fintyxx
I think my only concern would be in the - unlikely - event of something going wrong. I was warned that they use hand rather than arm preferably as the fingers give a natural end of line if the chemo escapes the vein its being injected into to prevent its access where its not wanted. If in eth earm it could go up the arm to anywhere and down to the fingers. I was told it happened rarely but obviously does for them to mention it. Tho I agree home environment is likely more comfortable…
I had my 6 Fec treatments at home and it was fine. No travelling and stress about parking, no waiting around in hospital, I always knew what time they were coming and i could just lie on the sofa after and relax. They are all fully trained in administering chemo and what to do if any problems occur so I never felt worried about anything going wrong. I had to go to hospital 2 days before each treatment for my blood tests.
If given a choice I would choose home treatment every time.
Hi, I had all my chemo at home, the nurses are very well trained, and for me, not being with other patients was a bonus! probably because I am a nurse! So much better than having to go to a chemo unit. I am nearly at the end of my herceptin which I have also had at home.
Carole
Thankyou everyone - sounds like it is the way to go, so if all is well I will take up the option!
Hi, I was also offered this but unsure as I wanted to keep home and being unwell separately. I had my first FEC on 10th Feb and next one due on 2nd March. Would be interested to know how you get on having the treatment at home please. Adi