As the name implies, colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon. The colon is the first and longest part of the large intestine. It is the last part of the digestive system. The digestive system breaks down food so it can be used by the body. The majority of colon cancer cases occur in older adults, although it can occur at any age. It usually begins as small clumps of cells called polyps that form inside the colon. Although polyps are generally not cancerous, some can become colon cancers over time. The majority of polyps in the colon do not cause symptoms. For this reason, doctors recommend regular screening tests to detect polyps in the colon. Finding and removing polyps can prevent colon cancer. If colon cancer develops, a variety of treatments are available to control it. These include surgery, radiation therapy, and medicines such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
There may, however, be barriers to quality colon cancer care, such as high costs, long wait times, lack of privacy, or stigma associated with colon cancer. Direct primary care (DPC) can help in those cases. In exchange for a monthly or annual fee, primary care physicians can provide their services directly to their patients—without involving an insurance company. In addition to consultations, exams, care coordination, and some lab services, the membership fee covers a variety of primary care services.
Colon cancer patients can benefit from DPC in several ways, including:
Typically, DPC physicians have fewer patients than traditional primary care physicians, which allows them to provide more personalized care and spend more time with their patients. By doing so, you can strengthen your relationship with your doctor and feel more comfortable discussing your colon cancer concerns.
The availability of flexible scheduling, same-day appointments, and extended hours is a benefit of DPC practices. In addition to communicating with patients and providing care remotely, they also use technology such as phone calls, email, and video chats. Your doctor can be reached whenever you have a question or need a prescription refill, saving you time and hassle when you visit the clinic.
More affordability and transparency: DPC practices charge a flat fee that covers most of your primary care needs. In addition, you'll know exactly what you're paying for and what services are included in your membership. You don't have to worry about deductibles, copays, coinsurance, or surprise bills. Some DPC practices may also offer discounts on medication and lab testing.
The following benefits can be yours if you choose DPC for your colon cancer treatment:
Early detection and treatment: As part of their preventive care services, DPC practices encourage colon cancer and other related conditions to be screened regularly. Utilizing the latest guidelines and evidence-based practices, they provide fast and accurate colon cancer testing and treatment. Getting tested and treated early can help prevent the spread of the cancer to other parts of your body. It can also help you survive and recover.
Monitoring and follow-up of patients with colon cancer: DPC practices provide comprehensive care to patients, including monitoring their symptoms, monitoring their treatment response, and adjusting medication dosages if necessary. In addition to testing and counseling, they coordinate with other specialists or health care providers if necessary to prevent recurrence or metastasis of the cancer.
Support and education: DPC practices provide information and support to colon cancer patients, including information about how to prevent colon cancer and other related problems, how to manage side effects from treatment, and how to cope emotionally with colon cancer. In addition, they can provide you with referrals to other health and wellness resources and services.
A DPC practice offers personalized colon cancer treatment based on your specific needs and preferences. For example:
Alternative or complementary therapies can help you heal faster or reduce side effects from medications if you prefer a natural or holistic approach to your colon cancer treatment.
Diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease may affect your colon cancer treatment or outcome. Your DPC doctor will adjust your treatment plan accordingly and monitor you closely for complications.
You may be given reminders or incentives by your DPC doctor if you have difficulty adhering to your colon cancer treatment regimen or remembering to take your medication on time.
To protect your privacy and confidentiality regarding your colon cancer diagnosis or treatment, your DPC doctor may use secure communication channels or encryption methods.
With DPC, you can manage your colon cancer better and improve your health, as you can see. DPC is a model of medicine that focuses on health and wellness rather than disease and illness, as Ralph Waldo Emerson famously said, “The first wealth is health.” A DPC model of medicine shows a great deal of respect for patients, especially those with chronic and complex conditions such as colon cancer, and shows interest in them. Find out more about DPC on the website of the American Academy of Family Physicians or the Direct Primary Care Coalition if you are interested in joining a DPC practice.
Previous Post
