Choosing a lung cancer care facility is one of the most crucial decisions you will face after being diagnosed with the disease or if seeking a second opinion.
You would be lucky to find a top-ranked cancer facility near your home. However, you will require research to find the best lung care facility in your location and decide whether it suits your needs, and if not, travel to a far-off center for more specialized services.
To assist you to decide which of the options would be the best, you require to know the factors that have an impact on your prognosis. Gathering crucial facts makes navigating the process easier enabling you to start treatment the soonest possible.
Factors to Consider when choosing a lung cancer treatment facility
There are many factors to consider before choosing a lung cancer treatment facility. One might be tempted to begin treatment as fast as one can. However, taking time and considering vital factors will ensure that you choose the best option. Some factors to consider are:
Quality of Care
Opting for a lung cancer facility like a cancer care center Orange County-based that has a good record for offering high-quality healthcare should be your priority. Luckily, some databases such as the National Cancer Institute and the American College of Surgeons can assist you with researching this.
Thoroughness of Care
Treatment of lung cancer is complex. One will require the attention of several specialists to address different aspects of your condition. These specialists include:
- Palliative care specialist
- Oncologist
- Lung cancer surgeon
- Radiation oncologist
- Thoracic surgeon
- Pulmonologist
Patient Volume
Big cancer facilities that specialize in dealing with large numbers of clients have advantages over smaller centers. Bigger centers usually have access to modern technology. When a facility has many patients, the staff get more experience.
Insurance Constraints
It is vital to check with your insurer to find out if it covers treatment at the facility you are considering.
