Hi @Chris51
Like you, I had private surgeon, then had public Radiation Oncologist, followed by public Oncologist for Tablets - all 3 are in 3 different hospitals!! Surgeon in Sydney, Rad Onc at Port Macquarie Hospital and the Onc at Taree Base Hospital
Bottom line is - you can really see whoever you prefer - so long as they are happy to see you!
I literally had my surgery today last year, followed by 4 weeks radiation with boosters that took me up to Easter. Shortly after that, I started Letrozole but didn't like it's painful side effects, so swapped to Exemestane, which has taken 6 months to also get to the extremely painful status! :( I will be trying prednisone for some short term pain relief & will discuss other options when I see my Onc in March/April (unless I can't put up with it & see her earlier!) I see my surgeon for my 1st yearly check up at the end of Jan.
Public treatment usually is free - there may be charges/gaps associated with private clinic Oncologists. Ask up front. If you get on well with the person and feel they are looking after your best interests, go with them. I have recently changed from a Public male oncologist who didn't really show any interest to me at all .... to a lovely Public Female Oncologist who I saw 'on & off' when I first started my Hormone Tablets (but was still not fully accredited.) She is now, so I will stick with her from now on.
All the best with your decision making xx
