What To Do When a Loved One Is First Diagnosed With Cancer
Start a medical care notebook.
Why You Need a Medical Care Notebook for Cancer Care -- and What to Put in It
You'll be surprised how many details you'll need to track, and how often you'll be asked to provide the same information. Having everything in one place keeps you organized and provides continuity if more than one person accompanies your loved one to health appointments.
Buy a portable dedicated file (such as an accordion file with tabs or an expandable notebook with clips) so you can insert notes and other papers, and bring it to every appointment. Include:
- Copies of lab and test results
- Personal and family medical history, including allergies
- Medications list (Download a medications list.)
- Notes from each doctor's appointment
- Contact information for all medical team members, including cell numbers and e-mail addresses, if available
- Questions to ask doctors during appointments
- Questions to research
- Copies of all key legal forms – including a medical information release form (also called a HIPAA, medical power of attorney, living will)
- Photocopies of insurance enrollment cards, front and back
- Photos of family and other loved ones for inspiration
