Hospital
Hello! I was diagnosed with breast cancer this week. I'm in Melbourne. Has anyone been or is currently undergoing treatment at a public hospital? What was the experience like? I'm reluctant to go to ...
Forum Discussion
So sorry to see you joining our group Amandasol .... but you are in the right spot, for questions & answers xx. I agree with everything that Abbydog has said - specially about 'Dr Google'!! Also, as well as having a friend sit in with you on your early appointments (including with Onc & Rad Onc if needed ....) consider recording your meetings too, so you can go over them again later on, if you need to. I did xx
I went private for surgery, purely to get it 'over & done with' as soon as possible, as mine was first 'spotted' in Oct yet the biopsy wasn't done until December & the results in early January! My surgery was mid Jan, as soon as the surgeon came off holidays!
Melbourne has EXCELLENT public hospitals & surgeons!
I went public for both my Medical and Radiation oncologists and couldn't fault them. I am finishing up with my Medical Onc next week, after 7 years ... I finished with my Rad Onc 2 years ago.
Both were incredibly professional & I only ever saw 'locums' if they were off sick or having babies! Other than that, I had the same Oncs all thru the 7 years.
Many have had excellent experiences in Public hospitals (and many surgeons operate in both the public & private sectors!) The one question I would ask - is if the surgeon is a Breast Surgeon 'specialist' and is not a 'general' surgeon.
Do you know what type of BC you have & if you are likely to have a lumpectomy or mastectomy at this point in time? If you are looking at Mastectomy (reconstruction or not) we have 2 groups that you may like to join to ask about them both so you have an informed decision.
Choosing Reconstruction:
Group: Choosing breast reconstruction | BCNA Online Network
Staying flat:
Group: Flat Chat - no breast reconstruction | BCNA Online Network
When you have time, jump onto this thread - it has a lot of info about the group & tips on what to take to hospital with you, as well as 'tick sheets' to monitor how you are going physically and mentally. xx If you are feeling anxious or scared ... give our our helpline a call on 1800 500 258, to have a one on one chat xx
A big welcome to all New Online Network Members ..... | BCNA Online Network
Take care, & wishing you all the best xx