One of the most important decisions you’ll make as you begin your melanoma journey is selecting your doctor and treatment team.
Because of the rapidly changing melanoma research landscape, we suggest selecting a doctor who regularly sees melanoma patients, and is more likely to be knowledgeable of the latest advancements.
So, how do you find a skin cancer doctor in Hagerstown, MD? What information should you know about melanoma treatment?
Who Is Qualified To Treat Melanoma?
Throughout your melanoma journey, you will likely interact with a variety of health care professionals, including dermatologists, surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Dermatologists have special training with a focus on skin, nails, and hair treatment.
Surgical oncologists have special training in cancer treatment, medical oncologists are specialists in using immunotherapy, targeted therapy, etc, and radiation oncologists are doctors with training in treating melanoma using radiation.
Your treatment team will also likely include a variety of other specialists, such as radiologists who perform X-rays and CT scans, nurse practitioners, nurses, social workers, etc.
What Questions Should I Ask My Doctors?
Are they part of your health insurance network? Are they convenient to get to? Does the doctor seem like a good fit in terms of service and communication?
Does the doctor’s office offer supportive services, such as help with nutrition? Does the doctor participate in research studies? Do they support patient participation in clinical trials?
All of these are good questions to follow up on with your provider. Be sure to ask questions that are important to you as well!
What About Second Opinions?
Many people diagnosed with a serious or rare illness, such as late-stage melanoma, want to get a second opinion on their diagnosis and their treatment options.
In melanoma, because of the fast-moving pace of research, second opinions can be a critical step. They can give you the different perspectives needed to make the best, most informed decision for you.
Now that you know more about skin cancer doctors in Hagerstown, MD, you’re probably wondering how to use this new information. Contact Herrera Reconstructive Surgery at (301) 739-7790