01. Choosing a Doctor
Choosing a Mesothelioma Doctor
Mesothelioma doctors and treatment centers across the country provide care for patients. It’s important to connect with a care team you can trust. Mesothelioma patients should ask questions to learn about a physician’s qualifications.
Mesothelioma Experience and Specialty
Patients should choose a doctor with years of experience and expertise in their specific type of mesothelioma. Many mesothelioma doctors have experience treating pleural or peritoneal mesothelioma. A specialist can also recommend the best treatment based on the patient’s cell type and cancer stage.
Treatment Options and Clinical Trials
It’s important for patients to choose an oncologist who understands standard and emerging mesothelioma treatment options. A specialist can recommend the best treatment options for a patient’s unique case. Top mesothelioma doctors across the country are also leading research for new treatments that could potentially extend patient survival. These doctors may help eligible patients find clinical trials that could improve their quality of life.
Trust and Communication
Mesothelioma patients should be able to trust their physicians. Top oncologists will listen to their patient’s concerns and answer any questions. Doctors will provide recommendations, but patients can ultimately choose how to proceed with treatment. Doctors should be available throughout the treatment process to discuss side effects and prognosis.
Cost and Travel Concerns
Patients may be concerned with treatment cost. Some patients and their loved ones travel for treatment and incur additional costs, such as accommodations. Patients should talk with their doctors and insurance providers to understand what costs may or may not be covered. Some mesothelioma treatment centers may offer support resources for patients and their families. There are also organizations that provide financial resources to support cancer victims.
02. Working With a Specialist
Why It’s Important to Work With a Mesothelioma Specialist
Mesothelioma specialists have the experience and expertise needed to accurately diagnose the disease and determine an effective treatment plan.
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare cancer and can be misdiagnosed. Many general oncologists are not experienced in diagnosing or treating the disease. An early, accurate mesothelioma diagnosis and treatment are the best ways for patients to improve life expectancy.
Treatment for mesothelioma can be complex. Pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma specialists know which cancer treatments are most effective. They will often work with a multidisciplinary care team to create a personalized plan for each patient’s case.
Targeted treatment plans can improve patient life expectancy and relieve symptoms.
Pleural Mesothelioma Doctors
The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma. It develops in the lining of the lungs, called the pleura. Pleural mesothelioma specialists include thoracic surgeons and medical oncologists. These doctors may have experience administering effective pleural mesothelioma treatments, including:
- An extrapleural pneumonectomy
- A pleurectomy
- Chemotherapy treatment
- General thoracic surgery
- Immunotherapy treatment
- Radiation therapy
Pleural mesothelioma doctors work in cancer centers around the country. Top doctors specializing in pleural mesothelioma include:
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Doctors
Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second-most-common form of the disease. This type develops in the lining of the abdomen. Peritoneal mesothelioma doctors may practice medical oncology or gastrointestinal surgery. These doctors may recommend a variety of peritoneal mesothelioma treatments, including:
- Cytoreductive surgery
- Heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC)
- Immunotherapy treatment
- Paracentesis
Peritoneal mesothelioma doctors work in cancer centers around the country. Top doctors specializing in peritoneal mesothelioma include:
03. Top Doctors Near You
Find a Nearby Mesothelioma Specialist
Doctors across the United States offer top mesothelioma cancer care. Select a state to see a list of mesothelioma doctors in your area.
Mesothelioma Doctors
Resources for Mesothelioma Patients
04. The First Appointment
What to Expect at the First Appointment
At the initial appointment, patients will discuss diagnosis, medical history and treatment options with their doctor. The appointment may begin with a physical exam or additional testing. After, the mesothelioma doctor will discuss details of the diagnosis (e.g., type, cell type and stage) and the prognosis.
At the first appointment, mesothelioma doctors may recommend a treatment plan. Patients and their loved ones can consider treatment options, including emerging treatments and clinical trials. Treatment should begin as soon as possible to slow the cancer’s spread.
What to Bring to the Appointment
- A friend or family member that can offer support, ask questions and listen
- A list of current allergies
- A list of current medications, vitamins and supplements
- A list of current questions and concerns
- All medical records and scans
- A notebook to take notes during the appointment
- Any new patient forms that were sent prior to the appointment
- Copies of insurance cards
Each doctor and cancer center may conduct initial appointments differently. However, a doctor will need to know a patient’s medical and occupational history. To prepare, patients and families should bring health records and up-to-date insurance information.
05. Questions to Ask
Questions to Ask a Mesothelioma Doctor
Patients should come to appointments with questions and potential concerns. By asking questions, patients can build strong communication and trust with the medical team.
Patients should connect with a mesothelioma doctor to understand their diagnoses and get the best treatment possible. Mesothelioma treatment is the best way to improve patient life expectancy and quality of life.
06. Common Questions
Common Questions About Mesothelioma Doctors
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What is the importance of seeing a mesothelioma doctor?
- Mesothelioma doctors have experience diagnosing and treating the disease. These specialists typically also have a better understanding of what clinical trials are available.
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Should you seek a second opinion from a mesothelioma doctor?
- Mesothelioma patients should always seek help from a mesothelioma doctor to ensure an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. It may be beneficial for patients to seek a second opinion from a specialist experienced in treating their particular type of mesothelioma.
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What is a thoracic oncologist?
- A thoracic oncologist is a doctor experienced in diagnosing and treating lung cancers. Thoracic oncologists are most likely to have experience treating pleural mesothelioma.
