How to change oncologist

Ask our Nurses your questions
1

My oncologist is not existent!

  • My first visit was rushed affair, no time for questions, etc.
  • 2nd meeting was a call, once again rushed, and told I need to take Tamoxifen, no discussion on side effects or if I wanted to take it.
  • Radiotherapy arranged and then changed from 10 sessions to 5, but nothing from oncologist until I chased him about it, to be told the radiologists nurses should have called me to discuss (me thinks not).
  • Called and emailed BCN and it took her two days to come back to me (yes I know they are busy), when she did call was told she doesn’t have any info, and her parting response was “now is there anything else I can help you with today” - not appreciated!
  • Radiology done, 3rd call - short and sweet (no how are you feeling, etc.) only am I now on Tamoxifen (said no as you said I need to have a gyn appoint to confirm I’m post-menopausal).
  • Gynae appointment had -confirmed I’m post-menopausal
  • Call arranged for last week, and I’m still waiting for that call (when I called to ask if he’s going to call, to be told oh he’s away at present), now waiting to hear when he’s going to call me to discuss which hormone therapy he will put me on.

So, question is how do you change oncologist on the NHS and is there any point at this point through my treatment.

Thank you

2

Hi cloudisland,

Thank you for your post.

It sounds like a difficult time for you. You may find calling us on our helpline useful to talk through your concerns in more detail. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary.

Some people do decide to move their care to another hospital for different reasons, this is a very individual decision and can be difficult, especially if the communication with your treatment team has been difficult. If you would like to change oncologist on the NHS, you can contact your breast care nurse to ask if there is another oncologist on the same team that you may be able to see. If you’d like to move hospitals, you can talk to your GP as they’ll need to refer you to the new hospital.

You may find our information about the different types of hormone therapies helpful to read.

We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.

As mentioned do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.

The number is 0808 800 6000. If you have hearing or speech difficulties prefix our number with 18001 and the call will go through Relay UK. Our helpline has access to telephone interpreters if language translation is required.

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Best wishes

Sonia

Breast Care Nurse

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