Ovarian cancer begins in the female reproductive organs, the ovaries, which produce eggs. Most cases of ovarian cancer are diagnosed at a late stage, when it is spread to other parts of the body. Due to this, it is challenging to treat and significantly reduces survival chances. The American Cancer Society reports a survival rate of 48% for ovarian cancer after five years, but this varies depending on the stage and subtype of the cancer.
Different symptoms can be associated with ovarian cancer, including abdominal pain, bloating, pelvic pressure, urinary urgency, changes in bowel habits, weight loss, fatigue, and abnormal vaginal bleeding. A doctor should be consulted if you experience any of these symptoms persistently or frequently since they are not specific to ovarian cancer.
Despite the lack of definitive screening tests for ovarian cancer, some tests can help detect it early or monitor its progression. There are several types of treatment options for ovarian cancer, including pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, blood tests for tumor markers, and genetic tests. Depending on the stage, subtype, and individual factors of the patient, surgical, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, and radiation therapy may be used.
Patients are provided with a direct and personal relationship with their primary care physician in direct primary care (DPC). In DPC, there is no middleman between insurance companies and third-party payers, and patients pay a flat monthly fee to get unlimited access to their doctor. In addition to office visits, phone calls, emails, texts, lab tests, and prescriptions, this fee covers all primary care services. DPC also allows patients to access discounted rates for specialist referrals, imaging, and procedures.
DPC can help patients with ovarian cancer manage their condition in several ways. Some of the benefits of DPC for ovarian cancer patients are:
In DPC, doctors have more time and flexibility to give individualized care to ovarian cancer patients. Patients' concerns can be heard, they can be educated about their diagnosis and treatment options, and other providers can be coordinated. Patients' preferences, goals, and values can also be taken into account when designing treatment plans. DPC doctors can also monitor their patients’ progress and adjust their treatment as needed.
Patients with DPC can reach their doctors at any time and anywhere, without having to schedule appointments, wait in line, or deal with insurance paperwork, thanks to improved access and communication. Their doctors can respond to their calls, emails, texts, or video chats promptly, and they can visit their doctors as often as needed, without paying copays, deductibles, or coinsurance fees. This can help patients with ovarian cancer get the support and guidance they need throughout their journey.
A flat monthly fee for primary care services and discounted rates for other services allows DPC patients to save money on their health care expenses. Aside from avoiding hidden fees, surprise bills, and administrative hassles associated with traditional insurance-based health care, DPC patients can also enjoy a higher level of quality health care since their doctors have fewer patients and more time to focus on their care. DPC doctors can also use the latest technology and evidence-based practices to provide the best care possible.
Ovarian cancer is a challenging condition, but with the help of DPC, patients can overcome it with more confidence, comfort, and control. DPC can offer patients with ovarian cancer a better way to manage their health and well-being, and improve their quality of life.
As a health care provider, DPC honors this principle by placing you at the heart of the process.
As Helen Keller once said, “Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.”
Previous Post
