Finding Your Cancer Care Home: Tips for Choosing the Right Center

It’s normal to have questions after a cancer diagnosis. After all, it’s a life-changing event. In the following weeks, it might be hard to know where to focus your energy. But one of the most important steps is finding the right place to get treatment. The cancer care center you choose should be able to meet all of your needs, big and small.

This might seem like an overwhelming process. But with a little guidance, choosing the right center will become easier. Here are some tips to think about during your search.

1. Understand your treatment options

Before looking for a care center, learn about the different ways to treat cancer. Start by talking with your healthcare provider. You can also read about surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and clinical trials. The more you know about your cancer type and the treatment options available to you, the more you will be able to make informed decisions about the type of care you need. Your provider can help you find care centers that offer the treatment you need.

2. Find experts who treat your cancer type

The best care center for you will be one that specializes in your kind of cancer. Look for centers that not only have experience with your cancer type, but also a strong track record of success. Before you make an appointment, call to ask about the medical staff and their areas of expertise. Also ask if the care center offers clinical trials. These may only be available at larger hospitals.

3. Check for teamwork

Cancer care is most effective when it comes from a team of healthcare providers. Your cancer care team should work together to make a treatment plan that meets your needs. Your team might include:

  • Medical oncologists

  • Radiation oncologists

  • Surgeons

  • Nurses

  • Other specialists

By working together, your care team can make sure all aspects of your treatment plan are accounted for. Ask if the providers meet routinely to discuss patient treatment plans and care. Also ask if there are additional staff available who may offer key resources for patients and families. These staff members may include:

  • Dietitians

  • Social workers

  • Case managers

  • Navigators

  • Counselors

4. Ensure good communication and support

Anxiety, confusion, depression, and anger. You may feel all these things and more after a cancer diagnosis. It’s important that you trust your providers to talk openly with you and your family and ease any worries. Look for a care center that makes compassionate communication a main concern. At your first visit, see if the staff listens well and answers your questions. They should seem invested in you and want to help you on your path through treatment. Ask if the care center offers support groups and educational workshops.

5. Consider your finances

Cancer treatment can be expensive. If you have health insurance, you’ll want to know if the care center takes yours. Always ask about any out-of-pocket costs you will have to pay and if the providers are in-network for your insurance plan. You may need to contact your insurance company to check. Many centers also offer financial counseling. These services are there to help you understand your insurance and how to pay your bill. They could even help you find other financial resources. Ask if there is a financial counselor or other resource person on staff.

6. Think about location and convenience

Another key issue to consider is where the center is located. Choosing a care center that's closer to home will mean less disruption for you and your family. And you can be near community resources and people who support you the most.

But a local option may not always be available. Or you may be interested in going to a comprehensive cancer center for a second opinion.

If the care center is far from your home, see if the center offers any additional resources. Some centers offer patients and families a short-term place to stay during treatment if they live far away. There are also local and national organizations that can help patients with the cost of lodging and gas.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has a database of cancer centers that may be helpful for you to review. Visit https://www.cancer.gov/research/infrastructure/cancer-centers/find.

Remember, no one has to face cancer alone. Finding the right care center is a big part of your cancer journey. But no matter which center you choose, make sure you feel confident in your decision. When you know you’re in good hands, you can focus on your well-being.