Using the immune system's power to target and destroy cancer cells, immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment. By providing comprehensive care, personalized support, and ongoing monitoring throughout the treatment journey, Direct Primary Care (DPC) practices are crucial in supporting patients undergoing immunotherapy. Here are some ways that DPC can help you manage your immunotherapy:
A DPC provider will coordinate all aspects of your immunotherapy treatment with your oncologist and other members of your healthcare team. To optimize treatment outcomes and support your well-being, they will ensure seamless communication, timely follow-up appointments, and continuity of care.
In addition to fatigue, nausea, skin rash, and immune-related adverse events, immunotherapy can cause a variety of side effects. To alleviate discomfort and improve your quality of life during treatment, your DPC provider will monitor you closely for any signs of side effects and offer proactive symptom management strategies.
It can be emotionally challenging to deal with cancer and to undergo immunotherapy. To cope with stress, anxiety, and other psychological effects of your cancer journey, your DPC provider will provide compassionate support, counseling, and resources. They will address your concerns, provide reassurance, and empower you to navigate treatment with confidence and resilience.
It emphasizes the whole person rather than just the disease as part of a holistic approach to patient care at DPC. You will receive comprehensive support tailored to your individual needs and preferences from your DPC provider, including physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.
DPC practices provide timely and accessible care, including same-day appointments, extended office hours, and telemedicine consultations. With this accessibility, you will be able to access supportive services throughout your immunotherapy journey, discuss treatment concerns, and receive prompt medical attention.
The DPC emphasizes patient-centered care, placing the patient at the center of your healthcare decisions and empowering them to participate actively in your treatment plan. Every step of the way, your DPC provider will listen to your preferences, values, and goals, involving you in shared decision-making and personalized care planning.
Before beginning immunotherapy, your DPC provider will conduct a comprehensive pre-treatment evaluation to determine whether you are eligible for immunotherapy, your cancer stage, and treatment goals. Any questions or concerns you may have will be addressed along with the benefits, risks, and potential side effects of immunotherapy.
During immunotherapy, your DPC provider will monitor your response to treatment, including tumor response, side effects, and changes in your overall health. In order to determine the effectiveness and safety of your treatment plan, they will perform regular physical exams, laboratory tests, and imaging studies.
To help you manage treatment side effects, optimize symptom control, and maintain your overall well-being, your DPC provider will offer supportive care services throughout your immunotherapy treatment and recovery. In addition to providing education, resources, and referrals, they will also provide nutrition counseling, pain management, and palliative care as needed.
As a result of DPC, patients undergoing immunotherapy receive comprehensive support, including treatment coordination, symptom management, emotional support, and personalized care planning. You can receive patient-centered, holistic care tailored to your individual needs and preferences if you're considering or are currently undergoing immunotherapy with a DPC provider.
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