Strategies for Maintaining Order to Overcome Anxiety Caused by Cancer Therapy Treatment

Organising Cancer Information: A Guide for Patients

In the face of a cancer diagnosis, managing one's health information can be a daunting task. However, the Cleveland Clinic, a renowned non-profit academic medical center, offers some valuable advice on how to better organise cancer-related information.

The Clinic recommends the use of integrated electronic health records (EHRs), multidisciplinary team meetings, and standardized care pathways. These recommendations can be implemented by adopting interoperable IT systems, scheduling regular collaborative case discussions, and developing clear clinical protocols.

One of the key aspects of organising cancer information is breaking it down into categories. This includes medical bills and receipts, including prescription receipts, which form part of insurance and billing information. Treatment records, such as surgeries, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy details, are also crucial and should be kept meticulously. Lab work and test results, explanation of benefit records, and treatment appointments are all part of personal health information.

Important phone numbers, such as contact numbers for your healthcare team and pharmacy, are part of schedules and contact information. Similarly, doctor appointments and personal schedules, including those of family members or companions, should be readily available.

An updated list of medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and supplements, is another essential component of personal health information. It is also advisable to decide what information can be set aside as long as it can be easily located if needed, and what information needs to be readily available, such as driver's license, proof of insurance, prepared questions, list of medications, and emergency contact information.

For those who prefer traditional methods, taking notes on paper is still a valid option. Others might find technology more convenient, using smartphones or tablets to keep track of appointments with calendar alerts. Regardless of the method chosen, patients and their loved ones should have appointments, treatment information, personal information, and doctor information readily available.

Josette Snyder, RN, MSN, AOCN, emphasises the importance of having cancer information organised, stating that it helps reduce stress. Additionally, legal documents such as wills, living trusts, guardianship papers, advance directives, living will, and healthcare power of attorney forms should also be kept in order.

In conclusion, organising cancer information can seem like a challenging task, but with the right strategies, it can be made manageable. By breaking down information into categories, utilising technology or traditional methods, and keeping important documents and contacts readily available, patients can take control of their health journey.

Strategies for Maintaining Order to Overcome Anxiety Caused by Cancer Therapy Treatment