Postby weisssoccermom » Tue Jun 09, 2015 1:45 pm
Like you, I was a stage IIA as well and stopped seeing my oncologist at 5 years. It just seemed silly to keep driving out to his office for what? As you said, it was a 10 minute, at most appointment where he did absolutely nothing. I also often felt that IF another patient came in during my wait in the exam room, that other patient took priority over me. So my 'visit' sometimes could ultimately take way more than an hour. Now, don't get me wrong, I understand that those in active treatment should take priority, but geez, when I am sitting in the exam room, at least come in, do the little poke here, listen to my lungs and let me be on my way.
I still am 'followed up' by my family doctor who orders my CEA now 1-2 times a year and until after year 5, also ordered my CT scans. The expectation was that IF something showed up on the scan and/or IF my CEA started rising, she (my GP) would continue to monitor me. IF there was a problem, back to the onc I would go. In addition, when I reached year 6...insurance would no longer pay for my scans.....can't blame them because based on standard of care adopted by oncologists, scans aren't recommended after year 5. I also see my colorectal surgeon at least once a year so am followed on that front as well. IMO, ditch the onc but get your CEA/CHEM tests done by your GP.
Just curious...why do you have YEARLY scopes??
Dx 6/22/2006 IIA rectal cancer
6 wks rad/Xeloda -finished 9/06
1st attempt transanal excision 11/06
11/17/06 XELOX 1 cycle
5 months Xeloda only Dec '06 - April '07
10+ blood clots, 1 DVT 1/07
transanal excision 4/20/07 path-NO CANCER CELLS!
NED now and forever!
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