Question

Joseph Appleton's primary care physician has referred him to Dr. Nester, an oncologist C (physician who specializes in diagnosis and treatment of cancer). Preliminary tests show C that Mr. Appleton may have colon cancer. Mr. Appleton, age 77, is uncomfortable about visiting a specialist he has never met. He is especially distraught about the possibility of having a life-threatening illness and does not understand why the physician he has seen for many years cannot take care of the problem. Carmen Rodriguez, Dr. Nester's medical assistant, greets Mr. Appleton on his first visit to the office. 1. Discuss the changes in health care delivery that have led to the referral of patients to specialists. 2. What can Carmen do to help Mr. Appleton feel more comfortable?

Answer 1

Mr Joseph Appleton has been referred to an oncologist specialist by his regular physician. The patient at this situation faces various problems including psychological and emotional.

1. There were several changes that led to the referral of the patient to the specialists by their primary physician.

- the first reason is to save the money which will be spent on the primary physician in every visit untill the proper diagnosis is done, also saving done from the diagnostic tests done for the patient

- the next reason is for the proper and accurate diagnosis and treatment, the physician cannot provide the exact and accurate diagnosis of the patient and hence cannot give required treatment to them. If referred to a proper specialist with the help of their knowledge and experience will be able to find the diagnosis with ease and also provide the appropriate treatment accordingly.

2. In order to help Mr Appleton be more comfortable Carmen can do things like:

- greet him with a warm smile and proper greeting

- provide appropriate gesture of welcome towards him

- Carmen can involve Mr Appleton in a good communication in order to win his confidence

- then she can provide proper psychological and emotional support to him

- she can also explain the importance of seeking the help of a specialist in order to confirm or to eliminate his doubts

- she should make him feel comfortable to be around her

- she should assure the patient regarding his safety and security

- she should tell him that she will be near him throughout his session