Q. What should I do first when my doctor tells me I have breast cancer?
A. It is a shock to hear this diagnosis. It is easy to panic and not believe what you've been told. Even though we all know it can happen, no woman expects it to happen to her. This news sends us into a tailspin and we do not know where to start getting information. Howard County General Hospital's Center for Breast Care is a phone call away. When you reach the Center for Breast Care manager, you will be invited to make an appointment to meet and discuss all of your questions and concerns. You will be directed to the specialists that will play a part in your treatment and recovery. Most importantly, you will have an advocate to guide you through the treatment process.
Q. Should I get a second opinion?
A. If you think and feel that a second opinion is important, then definitely get one. Be clear on why you want the second opinion. Examples of questions to ask yourself:
- Do you want to talk to another surgeon about what type of surgery to choose?
- Do you want the diagnosis confirmed by a different pathologist?
- Do you want to talk to another oncologist?
All of the above are valid reasons to seek a second opinion. Your health care provider or The Center for Breast Care can guide you through this process. The Center for Breast Care holds a Cancer Conference meeting every week for the purpose of providing a second opinion and a plan of care for each newly diagnosed cancer patient. The board includes surgeons, pathologists, radiologists, medical and radiation oncologists, nurses and other allied health care professionals that may participate in your care.
Q. What are the support services and resources available to me?
A. The Center for Breast Care has many resources and services that are easily and readily accessible to you. Please click on Resources and Services to see what they are.