A Treatment Plan Just for You
Our goal at The CaroMont Cancer Center is to assist patients through each step of the treatment process, from anxiety-filled waiting times through the transitions at the end of treatment and beyond. Each patient is treated through an individual treatment plan that takes time and involvement from numerous physicians and departments. To facilitate collaboration, The CaroMont Cancer Center at Gaston Memorial Hospital sponsor a weekly Tumor Board where physicians bring cases for discussion about the most effective cancer treatment options for each patient.

Answers to Your Questions
During the consulation with the physician, it is important to come prepared in order to get the most from your visit. Patients are encouraged to bring a friend or family member, as well as, a list of questions they would like to discuss with their physician. Make sure that a timetable for the individual treatment plan is discussed so patients have a realistic expectation of when treatments will begin. Some treatment methods require a lengthier time span prior to the treatment actually beginning and knowing this can help alleviate anxiety. Necessities like pre-registration, additional tests, or simulations are part of the typical scenarios that can seem to slow the initiation of treatments.

Helpful Information
Patient and family education is a valued component of the treatment process. The surgical or oncology nurse will provide education about potential side effects and strategies for coping. Printed materials and videos are also available for patients, family members and the general community. The CaroMont Cancer Center at Gaston Memorial Hospital has a loan library available for patients, family members, and the general community.

Responding to Your Healthcare Concerns
During the treatment process, communication with your healthcare team is critical. If bothersome side effects occur, the patient or family must discuss symptom management with the physician or nurse. The healthcare team is dedicated to promoting quality of life for cancer patients, and they want to know about fears or concerns as they arise.