Hi everyone,
I’m more than a little lost. A relative of mine is suspected of having oral cancer & has been advised that they will be referred to a hospital to be seen by a specialist. They have been offered one of two hospitals & I have no idea which to pick.
I can’t seem to find anything online that would help me figure out which is better. So far, I have looked at the Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) reports into both but there’s nothing specific on how good Oncology departments are. I’ve also looked at reviews online for both hospitals & they contradicted the CQC’s findings.
I really need some advice on what I should be looking for from a hospital at this stage & where I can find out if the hospitals my relative has been offered meets these requirements.
Missi
Hi and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your relatives diagnosis. A cancer diagnosis in the family can be very challenging.
With regards to the hospitals I just don't know how you would find this information but talking with others who are walking the same type of cancer treatment journey (my one is completely different) will help you navigate this difficult time and there may well be folks who have had treatment at these hospitals.
The New to Community is like the Community Reception area and as there are many cancer types and experiences so likewise the Community has many support groups so can I recommend you start of by joining our supportive Head and neck cancer group as this will be a good place to connect with folks who may be on the same cancer treatment pathway.
Navigating the community will depend on the device you are using.
To join a group just click on the green link above then scroll down and choose 'click to join' or 'join' on the page that opens.
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a post by clicking on ‘New Thread’ or ‘New here, say hello’ then hit the box with the X on the top right (phones).
You could just copy and paste the text from this your first post. You can also join in with existing ‘Discussions’ by clicking on 'reply'.
You may also want to try the Macmillan Support Services on 0808 808 00 00 - most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week Clicking here to see what is available. This service provides lots of cancer information, support, financial guidance or just a listening ear.
We also have Cancer Nurse Team in our Ask an Expert section, but do allow two working days for replies from our expert team.
To find information covering diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers check our Online Information and Support Section.
All the very best.
