Communicating With the Care Team During Breast Cancer Treatment

In part three of CURE’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month webinar series on effective care team communication, we partnered with City of Hope to learn more about how patients with breast cancer can talk with their care team about every aspect of their diagnosis and treatment.

We spoke with Dr. Joan Mortimer, medical oncologist and Baum Family Professor in Women’s Cancers, and Louise Wong, nurse practitioner of medical oncology, both of whom are from City of Hope, to discuss what patients can do to prepare for appointments, ask effective questions and how the broader breast cancer community can support patients with this communication.

Summary:

0:13 — Preparing for Appointments

• Patients should gather relevant medical records and consider bringing a trusted companion to appointments to assist with notetaking and question-asking.
• Open and honest communication with the healthcare team is crucial. Patients should feel comfortable asking questions, expressing concerns and sharing their preferences for receiving information.
• Prioritizing Mental Well-being: Patients should focus on managing stress and anxiety, which can be exacerbated by a breast cancer diagnosis. Seeking support from loved ones, support groups, or mental health professionals can be beneficial.

2:51 — Challenges in Communication

• Patients can become overwhelmed by excessive information, particularly when relying on unreliable online sources. It's important to prioritize clear and concise communication with healthcare providers and to avoid information overload.
• Having a trusted companion during appointments can be beneficial for notetaking, asking questions and providing emotional support.
• Patients should ask questions to fully understand their diagnosis, treatment options and potential side effects. Breaking down treatment into stages (breast, whole body and follow-up) can help patients grasp the overall plan.

6:20 — Success Stories of Effective Communication

• Healthcare providers should be flexible and adaptable to individual patient needs, especially during initial treatment periods when anxiety and uncertainty may be high.
• Patients should feel comfortable discussing all symptoms and side effects with their healthcare providers, even if they seem minor or unusual. Open communication is essential for effective treatment and management of side effects.
• Patients should actively participate in their care by asking questions, seeking clarification and advocating for their needs. This includes sharing concerns and symptoms with healthcare providers to ensure optimal treatment and support.

8:41 —Support Through the Greater Breast Cancer Community

• Patients with breast cancer often find support and understanding from other survivors. Online communities and local support groups provide opportunities for sharing experiences, advice, and emotional support.
• Healthcare facilities offer a range of services beyond medical treatment, including psychosocial support, nutrition counseling and rehabilitation programs.
• Patients should feel empowered to ask questions, express concerns and advocate for their needs. Open and honest communication with healthcare providers is essential for optimal care.

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