No one wants to hear the words “You have cancer”. Beyond tests and treatments, what actually matters to patients navigating the cancer journey?
1) Support from Doctors, Family and Friends
Cancer is not a journey to be walked alone. Studies show that support from family, friends, neighbours and health providers reduces the stress from breast cancer diagnosis and treatments[1].
When faced with a diagnosis, it is normal for patients to be overwhelmed. Uncertainty, well-meaning advice from loved ones and too much information from different sources makes the reality daunting[2].
In the face of confusion, detailed explanations and outline of next steps by doctors provide clarity which can help patients feel more in control[2].
Emotional support from loved ones could mean listening, being sensitive to how the patient feels, learning about their cancer and recognising that everyone’s journey is different[3].
Practical help can make a world of difference, to allow patients to focus on treatments and get the rest they need. Here are some ways to help[3]:
Preparing meals that can be easily frozen and reheated
- Driving patients to and from medical appointments
- Picking up medicine or groceries
- Helping with cleaning, laundry, or pet care
Peer support from fellow cancer patients can offer a sense of catharsis[4]. By joining support groups, patients can share their difficulties and express their feelings freely amongst those going through similar experiences[4]. Club Solis is a supportive community for Solis patients to connect, share real stories and heal together.
2) Being Respected and Treated Like a Human
Cancer can change how patients see themselves, and physical changes from treatments can impact their self-image[5].
Ultimately, patients want doctors (and those around them) to treat them as individuals—to be valued and understood beyond just their diagnosis[6].
This can include being given assurances, having their feelings and opinions respected, and having their unique needs recognised. Reminding patients that they are more than just their illness helps preserve their sense of dignity[6][7].
The cancer journey encompasses more than just receiving treatment; it impacts all aspects of a patient’s life. A personalised approach that considers patient preferences can make them feel seen and heard, instead of just another number[6][7]. Solis actively partners with dietitians, psychologists, physiotherapists and organisations such as Can-Care Asia to offer bespoke care and post-care that acknowledges every stage of the patient journey. Patients can approach any of Solis’ clinics for more information.
3) Timely Care with Shorter Waits
Waiting for test results or treatments is often physically, mentally and emotionally draining. The longer the wait, the more one’s thoughts can spiral[8].
Research shows that patients worry about waiting times throughout their cancer journey, from pre-diagnosis to treatment[9]. This shows how crucial wait times are for their overall care experience.
Cancer patients want to know how long it will take to get test results, when they can expect them and what those results mean[10]. Having this information reduces anxiety by allowing patients to have a clearer idea of what to expect next.
The Light of Integrated Care
Dealing with cancer is in itself tough. Long wait times, fragmented care and unmet needs can make the journey even harder. Integrated healthcare brings different services together, so patients receive smoother and more coordinated care[11].
Solis Breast Care & Surgery Centre offers an integrated hub for breast care needs, offering surgery, imaging and testing under one roof. In partnership with Luma Women’s Imaging Centre, women can take next steps seamlessly without travelling far, as diagnostic testing is located near to consultation rooms.
This setup makes it easier for women to have screenings and see a doctor on the same day, easing the anxiety that comes with waiting.
The Day Surgery Operating Theatre (DSOT) allows patients to come in for scans and surgeries and go home within a day. If required, an on-site pathologist can assess surgical specimens in real time during procedures. This means patients can receive streamlined care without needing a second surgery.
With an all-female surgical team, Solis offers holistic breast care that prioritises patient worries and emotional well-being. With breast cancer treatment, it is natural to worry about your body, and concerns about fertility or sexuality can complicate treatment decisions. Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques, oncoplastic surgery enables women to preserve the majority of their breast tissue while maintaining its natural shape and size.
Your breast health is essential. Under the personalised and holistic care at Solis, you can be rest assured that your voice will be heard and that you are in the good hands of a multidisciplinary team. If you have concerns about your screening results, schedule an appointment for a second opinion and to discuss the next steps.
References
[1] Breast Cancer: Exploring the Facts and Holistic Needs during and beyond Treatment
[3] Canadian Cancer Society, 5 ways to support a friend with cancer
[5] National Cancer Institute, How Cancer Affects Your Self-Image and Sexuality
[6] The Supportive Care Needs of Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review
[8] Cancer Society New Zealand, Coping with waiting
[10] What information do cancer patients want and how well are their needs being met?
