How to Create a Cancer Survivorship Care Plan

 

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What Does Cancer Survivorship Mean?

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Transcript:

Whether you’ve just finished treatment or are years out from your diagnosis, a Cancer Survivorship Care Plan can help you, your loved ones, and your healthcare team manage your overall health. 

So, what exactly is a Survivorship Care Plan? This plan is your roadmap for the next phase of your cancer journey. It includes information about your diagnosis, prior treatments, follow-up care, and it helps you and your healthcare team monitor your long-term health. 

So, what should your Survivorship Care Plan include? Here are the key components: 

• It starts with a treatment summary, which lists the types of therapy you received, the dates of treatment, and any complications that arose. This information allows your future healthcare providers to better understand your medical history. 
• The plan also includes a follow-up care schedule that details regular check-ups, screenings, and tests. These appointments monitor for cancer recurrence and ensure any side effects are managed effectively. 
• Potential long-term side effects of your treatment are also noted in a survivorship care plan. Having this information can allow you to be more aware, so you can communicate any physical changes with your team.  
• Tips and guidelines for maintaining a healthy lifestyle are also added to the plan and may include advice on diet, exercise, and mental health support, which can all support your quality of life as a survivor. 
• Another key component is contact information for your healthcare providers, including your oncologist, primary care physician, and any specialists you see regularly. This makes it easy to reach out when you need assistance or have questions. 

Creating a Survivorship Care Plan is a collaborative effort. Schedule a meeting with your oncologist and primary care physician to develop your plan. Here are some questions to guide your discussion: 

• What specific follow-up tests do I need? 
• How often should I see my healthcare team? 
• What symptoms should I watch for that might indicate a recurrence or new cancer? 
• What steps can I take to manage any long-term side effects? 
• Are there specific lifestyle changes I should make to improve my health? 

Once your plan is in place, it’s time to take action. Follow your healthcare team’s recommendations and attend all appointments. So, what other steps can you take to stay proactive in your survivorship? 

• Regularly update your plan and review it with your doctor or care team. 
• Set health goals with your healthcare team and plan for potential challenges. 
• You should also seek counseling to address your emotional and mental health when necessary. Keeping a journal may be helpful too. 
• And, seek out support and resources from advocacy organizations like the Patient Empowerment Network and Cancer Support Community. 
• It’s also a good idea to consider financial and legal aspects: Understand insurance, explore financial aid, and prepare legal documents as appropriate. 
• Maintain a healthy diet, engage in regular physical activity and incorporate enjoyable exercises into your daily routine. 
• Take good care of yourself – Lean on friends, family, and support groups for emotional and practical support. 

Remember, you are not alone on this journey. By creating and following a Survivorship Care Plan, you’re taking an important step toward living well after cancer. To learn more about cancer survivorship and access support resources, visit powerfulpatients.org.