What to Consider When Choosing Your Ovarian Cancer Care Team

Look for an Ovarian Cancer Specialist

It's incredibly important for every woman who has ovarian cancer to be evaluated by a gynecologic oncologista specialist in treating cancers of a woman's reproductive organs. These physicians have done their specialty training in women's cancer and the associated surgeries, so they're able to make an appropriate surgical assessment.

Generally speaking, the more surgeries a doctor performs, the better prepared they'll be to handle complications should they arise. Most oncologists would agree that technique and volume probably go hand-in-hand. The more surgeries a doctor performs, the better their technique becomes. "We do know that patients who are treated in high-volume centers have better outcomes simply because those surgeons are doing those type of cases more," one oncologist told SurvivorNet.

Dr. Eskander says he recommends that if at all possible, ovarian cancer patients get their treatment at an NCI-designated cancer center, which must meet rigorous standards for transdisciplinary, state-of-the-art research focused on developing new and better approaches to preventing, diagnosing, and treating cancer.

What does that mean for you? Dr. Eskander explains:

• NCI-designated cancer centers have opportunities for clinical trial enrollment, which can be really important both at initial diagnosis and at recurrence
• Doctors work collaboratively with specialists. For instance, during your surgery, there are other surgical specialists who can be present if you have cancer in other organs or places that might require their expertise
• NCI-designated cancer centers will likely offer patients access to support groups and social networks
• Patients may have access to chemotherapy education classes to learn about the drugs they’re receiving for treatment

"Pretty much automatically, there's going to be a team approach [to your care]," one doctor explained to SurvivorNet. "Surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and all the support servicesand also wonderful pathology and radiology." At a comprehensive cancer center, all these different specialists work together to figure out the best course of treatment for you.

The bottom line, says Dr. Eskander, is that "we have research infrastructure built into the cancer center that’s continually driving drug discovery and opportunities to hopefully help our patients now and potentially our patients in the future. I take pride in saying that UC San Diego is the only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center in San Diego County."

Additional questions to ask providers

In addition to asking about clinical trials to join, the availability of other specialists, support groups, and educational programs, Dr. Eskander suggests inquiring about alternative therapeutics or acupuncture if that's something you're interested in. "Ask what does your institution do? Is that even a resource?" he says.

Trust and Comfort Are Key

As with selecting a hospital or cancer center, the doctor you choose should be someone you feel comfortable with and confident aboutand no rankings website can tell you that. Most oncologists would agree that when choosing a surgeon, comfort and confidence should be at the top of your checklist, since you'll likely have a lasting relationship in the months and years to come.

It's important to feel like your doctor explains things to you in a way you understand, takes time to answer all your questions, and respects your opinions and feelings. What matters most is finding a doctor who you believe will take the best care of you. "Throughout the continuum of therapy, my connection to my patients is critical," says Dr. Eskander. "And every patient should feel that connection with their provider."

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