How to Access the Best Esothelioma Doctors

By RUBMD 6 Min Read

It can be a tough pill to swallow for you or your loved one to be diagnosed with mesothelioma. Usually linked to asbestos exposure, mesothelioma can be a serious battle. However, the key is to find the right doctor. You require someone who has the experience and knowledge to guide you through the best treatment options available. Keep reading to learn how you can find the right doctor for your needs.

Choose a specialist

Mesothelioma isn’t a job for the general physician or regular oncologist. You require someone specializing in mesothelioma. There are doctors who have spent several years studying and treating this specific type of cancer. A mesothelioma doctor is specially trained to diagnose and treat mesothelioma. 

All mesothelioma forms require different methods of treatment. General physicians usually don’t offer these services. Choosing a specialist for your diagnosis can enhance your prognosis and survival rates. Most of the time, mesothelioma patients are initially misdiagnosed by general oncologists. This is why experts argue that they are ill-equipped to handle mesothelioma. 

Mesothelioma specialists usually specialize in various areas, such as peritoneal (stomach) mesothelioma, pericardial (chest) mesothelioma, and pleural (lung) mesothelioma. This way, medical experts can focus on the treatment of a particular disease. 

Look into major cancer centers

Some medical centers are known for their groundbreaking works in cancer treatment and research. One hospital that specializes in mesothelioma and offers the best cancer care is Mayo Clinic. There are also others that own cutting-edge treatments, top-rated specialists, and offer access to clinical trials. 

Additionally, thanks to the internet, you can find specialist mesothelioma doctors. There are several resources that you can use, including the National Cancer Institute, the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), and Google and other health review websites. 

Ask for referrals

If you have been diagnosed, there is a chance you have seen an oncologist. Ask them for a referral or recommendation. These doctors usually have a network of colleagues, so they can point you in the right direction. You can also request referrals from cancer support groups, primary healthcare physicians, and other mesothelioma patients. Also, consider using online forums. 

Consider clinical trials

The treatment of mesothelioma is advancing and evolving. Clinical trials are an excellent way to gain access to cutting-edge therapies that you might not find elsewhere. Many top mesothelioma doctors usually lead clinical trials. Consider checking for these opportunities in a bid to find an excellent specialist. There are also websites devoted to doctors and active trials. 

Verify experience and credentials

Before you choose a mesothelioma doctor, ensure that you check their board certification, years of experience, patient reviews, research contributions, and affiliation with cancer centers. Ask questions such as:

  • Are you a board-certified oncologist or thoracic surgeon?
  • How long have you been treating mesothelioma?
  • What past patients do you have?
  • Have you published any studies on mesothelioma?
  • Are you working at a reputable hospital?

Evaluate the treatment options

There are various approaches to mesothelioma treatment. The right doctor should provide you with several options tailor-made to your case. Some common treatments include radiation therapy that targets cancer cells, chemotherapy to slow down the growth of cancer, surgery to remove tumors when possible, immunotherapy to boost your body’s immune system to fight cancer, and multimodal therapy, which is a combination of various treatments. However, note that some specialists offer emerging and advanced treatments such as targeted therapy and gene therapy. So, it is worth asking about the available treatment options. 

Join support groups

Finding the right doctors is a part of the journey. Ensure to consider support from others who know and understand what you are experiencing. This is very valuable. Consider joining a mesothelioma support group in person or online. These groups can offer many things, such as emotional support, doctor recommendations, resources for financial, legal help and financial aid, and tips on dealing with the side effects of treatments. 

Consider your insurance coverage

Usually, high-quality care comes with a hefty price tag, so before you commit to a specialist, ensure to check if your insurance covers the treatment at your chosen hospital. Find out if the doctor accepts your insurance plan. Are there any out-of-pocket costs? Are there financial assistance programs available? Note that some mesothelioma treatment centers provide financial aid and patient support programs to help cover the cost.

Endnote

Finding the best mesothelioma doctor can take a bit of work. However, it is worth the effort. Make sure you prioritize specialists, check out major cancer centers, and utilize online directories. Since your health is the most crucial thing, take your time to find the right doctor who understands mesothelioma and is ready to fight for you. 

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