Struggling to Find the Right Oncologist as a Black Woman with Metastatic Cancer

Get another oncologist, please! This is unacceptable. You should have a “ team” in place. They confer with one another. It’s ok to have questions but your oncologist should automatically receive your reports and read the information before he/she sees you.

I Am in an HMO so limited to how many docs there are. Not sure how to navigate the system here. Have already had 3 docs.

What about your nurse navigator ? Can she make any suggestions?

What state are you in?

Washington

Will make an appointment to talk to navigator

My nurse navigator is amazing as is my primary care. My navigator will escalate any issues I have and resolve them as best she can. You can also call your insurance company and see if you can go out of the practice you are assigned to because the dr isn’t doing his job. Maybe tell them you would like a woman or African American onco and see what they say. It can’t hurt to ask. Good luck!

TU

You are so welcome. Many minds provide great ideas, so no question is ever a bad question.❤️

I was just thinking that you could also research oncologists in your area using healthgrades.com. It’s a way for you to read up a little about the doctors so you might be able to tell your insurance you want ‘this person’ rather than them assigning someone to you.

Your experience highlights a real challenge that many patients face when trying to find the right oncologist who truly listens and advocates for their care. Finding a healthcare provider who understands your needs, respects your knowledge about your own body, and proactively addresses your concerns can make such a difference in your treatment journey. Consider reaching out to local cancer centers, patient advocacy groups, or online directories that may help connect you with oncologists who have experience working with diverse patient populations and prioritize patient-centered care.