You have a choice with your cancer care

If you suspect or have been recently diagnosed with cancer, it is essential to find a team that you can trust. After all, you are putting your life in their hands. Here are some tips for what to look for when selecting a cancer provider:

Expertise and Experience

Board Certification: Ensure the oncologist is board-certified in their specialty, such as medical oncology. 

Specific Cancer Experience: Prioritize oncologists with experience treating your specific type of cancer, as expertise can vary. 

Treatment Volume: Inquire about the number of patients they’ve treated with your specific cancer type and the success rates. 

Clinical Trials: Ask about opportunities for clinical trials, which can offer access to cutting-edge treatments. 

Communication and Care

Communication Style: Choose someone who communicates clearly, explains things in an understandable way, and listens to your concerns. 

Comfort Level: Select an oncologist with whom you feel comfortable discussing your diagnosis, treatment options, and personal preferences. 

Supportive Care: Inquire about the availability of supportive care services like counseling, nutrition services, and social work. 

Treatment Approach: Understand their approach to treatment, whether it’s traditional, experimental, or a combination. 

Practical Considerations

Hospital Affiliation: Check if they are affiliated with a reputable hospital that offers comprehensive care and resources. 

Insurance Coverage: Confirm that the oncologist is in-network with your insurance plan to manage costs. 

Location and Convenience: Consider the location of the practice and whether it’s accessible for regular appointments and treatments. 

Why Patients Choose ECHO

At ECHO, all our doctors are board-certified in medical oncology and/or hematology and have extensive experience and specialized areas of interest. We offer the latest clinical trials and cutting-edge treatments. And, we offer the convenience of having all your services in one convenient location. We also have a dedicated support team including an educator, nutritionist, social worker, and nurse navigator.

We recently asked some of our patients what led them to choose ECHO. Many of their answers focused on the way that they were treated at our practice and the personalized care they received. We know there are many great oncologists out there, but at ECHO, we pride ourselves on taking the time to get to know each patient, educate them, and hold their hand every step of the way.

• I had my first consultation elsewhere. I felt uncomfortable, confused, and overwhelmed. I walked out more upset and confused. I had a second consultation at ECHO. My doctor explained everything so well, gave me many different options, and was so understanding. It was completely different experience. I felt like I was being care for as a person – not as a number or just another cancer patient. Everyone is always so kind at ECHO. They are willing to listen, answer questions, and don’t overwhelm me with medical jargon.
• I am highly satisfied because I am always treated with respect by my doctor, APNN, phlebotomists, and receptionist. They all always treat me with respect and with great care. It is always a very pleasant experience when I visit ECHO.
• The entire office staff and doctors give me their all – every time I have an appointment. I can’t say enough about their encouraging thoughts and comments!  
• My doctor and everybody in his office are the very, very best! I’m treated as a person and friend, like family but very professional. I know it is a doctor’s office, but they help in any way possible.  
• I initially went a large cancer center. The care was good, but I felt like I was a number. A friend of mine going through the same experience told me about ECHO. I never looked back. I feel like I am treated like a person, not just another cancer patient. 
• I came to ECHO because they successfully treated my father over 25 years ago for esophageal cancer. I found my doctor to be so personable, and he went over my options in great detail, so I had very few questions. We decided on a course of treatment and I left feeling very confident on next steps.  
• I wanted to make sure I had access to clinical trials and also had my family around me to help during my treatment. ECHO offered me the opportunity to participate in a clinical trial in a location close to home.  
• I did not want to go to large practice or a hospital setting where no one knows who I am and I feel rushed at visits. I like that ECHO is a private practice and puts me first.
• I love that there is always someone available to address my questions – night and day. Everyone knows my name, my husband’s name, and even the name of my dogs. I could not ask for a more caring team.
• I came to ECHO for a second opinion. My doctor spent so much time educating me, answering all my questions, and discussing different options. I did not feel rushed or silly asking my long list of questions. I immediately felt comfortable and decided this is where I wanted to have my care.
• Click here to learn what other patients have to share. 

If you are looking for a new provider, want a second opinion, or are looking to make a change, contact us today. No referral is needed, and we are committed to get patients scheduled quickly. Call our new patient line at: (860) 251-9998