Finding a new oncologist: navigating the process and making sure transition goes smoothly

Dr. Martin Palmeri
·3 min read

Health care in Western North Carolina has undergone significant transitions over the last few years. Unfortunately, there is ongoing uncertainty for many patients facing a diagnosis of cancer. The relationship that a patient and their family forges with their medical oncologist is intense and deeply personal. If you have cancer and find yourself in need of a new oncologist, I write this article to provide some guidance and suggestions for a smooth and timely transition. However, this advice is applicable to anyone transitioning medical care.

For many patients who need to transition, I would recommend trying to identify a doctor who specializes in your specific cancer and who meshes with your personality. Many of the oncologists who practice in this area have been here for many years. Reach out to your primary care physician to see who they would recommend from a personality standpoint. Once you have identified a new oncologist, I would recommend scheduling an appointment. If you are on active chemotherapy, it is important that you get established as soon as possible as it is critical not to interrupt your treatment. There could potentially be delays in care due to insurance issues. I would also recommend that you request copies of your records from the practice you are leaving, specifically your biopsy reports, imaging studies and treatment records. Hand deliver these to your new doctor's office. Timely transition of a comprehensive set of records will minimize delays in your care. If you are not on chemotherapy or being seen frequently, ask to schedule your follow-up at the regularly scheduled interval (three, four or six months). This will ensure patients who need a rapid assessment are seen by a doctor in a timely fashion.

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Next, when you establish care with a new doctor, you may feel uncomfortable and unsettled. The key for this new encounter is good communication. Every doctor practices a little differently and has a different style. If your prior oncologist did something you really liked and appreciated, please let your new doctor know. For example, some patients like to see all of their CAT scans and go through them with their doctor. If this is something you want to do, just let your doctor know. Some patients like paper copies of all of their labs. If you do, let your doctor know and they can print them out for you. Some patients get upset if a doctor does things differently, but if you do not let your doctor know what you like, it could cause unnecessary friction. I would also note that during transitions like this, your doctor may absorb dozens of new patients in a short period of time. Many doctors will give up their vacations, lunch breaks and time with their families to ensure that patients can be seen as quickly as possible. That being said, having a little grace with your doctor is appreciated.

As the president of the North Carolina Oncology Association, founding member of the Appalachian Oncology Alliance, an adviser to the American Society of Clinical Oncology's Rural Oncology Task Force and recipient of the American Medical Association's Excellence in Medicine Award, I can say with confidence that there are excellent medical oncologists in Western North Carolina. Many of the medical oncologists who practice in our region could have easily taken jobs at larger academic medical centers, but elected to practice in the community setting. They are here for you.

For those who need to establish with a new cancer doctor, below are the referral contacts for oncology practices in the region:

Dr. Martin Palmeri
Dr. Martin Palmeri

Dr. Martin Palmeri is a Hematologist/Oncologist at Messino Cancer Centers.  He grew up in Arden and is an unceasing advocate for the patients of Western North Carolina. He currently serves as the president of the North Carolina Oncology Association supporting patients and doctors in our state. He is the Oncology Service line leader at Mission representing the medical oncologists and radiation oncologists in the region.   

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Finding a new oncologist when doctor leaves: navigating the process