For all you patient people checking in to see the blog, my apologies. I am still a nomad at work and can't seem to get my computer working either at home or work! Our IT department is keeping busy trying to trouble shoot for me. this made me think about how I do much the same for my patients. I realize all the hoops that you have to contend with and all the different doctors and appointments. If you show up with a sore throat not related to your treatment you will have to go see your family doctor and if you have an ingrown toenail your oncologist will not take care of that. It is as frustrating to you as it is to us and now days, in some hospitals if you are admitted, you will see a hospitalist and that is a new doctor that just follows you while you are in the hospital. Is it any wonder why patients are confused and wondering who they contact first or tell what to whom. I try to ease the pathway when I can but even as a nurse sometimes the line blurs and as a patient, I try not to overstep my bounds. I encourage you all to know your team and their first names. Write down who you talked to an when and what about and don't be afraid to call again. I currently have been waiting since last Friday for my doctor's office to call back and fortunately it isn't a huge problem but seeing that it is Wednesday, I will make another attempt. For those of us trying to schedule for patients, we need to be aware that every appointment may mean another co-pay. Few of us can afford several in a week at this time. So as my frustration mounts in regards to keeping in touch with you and also getting my work done, I continue to work to making inroads for you during and after treatment. It will be a good day?
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AuthorMy name is Sue Kilburn and I am a clinical nurse breast cancer educator at the Yolanda G. Barco Oncology Institute in Meadville, Pennsylvania. Archives
March 2015
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