As a loved one of someone who struggled with cancer each day for years I say, let me hide my head in the sand and keep fighting regardless of what's in my chart.
On the other hand, as a wellness coach, with so many players involved in the treatment of cancer and other chronic illnesses, isn't it just smart to always have the answers each time you see a new doctor, nurse, or therapist?
After weighing the pros and cons and seeing it from both sides of the coin I decided, it's best to know your information. With all the team members which commonly includes an oncologist, an internist, a surgeon, a mental health professional, a physical therapist, and even possibly a health coach it's just smart to have your files with you at all times. You are a team, this is your life team. Would you send your quarterback out on the field on a play action play without your offensive tackle knowing the play call?
If you have cancer you at one time or another are going to be depressed, anxious, and scared. But, if you know you are doing everything you can to get the best care, doesn't it give you some sense of relief?
Ultimately, I believe the fighters are going to fight, and the quitters are going to quit. So, what was the outcome of the study? Turns out the group who received their medical records and kept them for the duration of the treatment had similar outcomes, reported a similiar quality of life, and same level of anxiety as the control group.
So, you decide, what's right for you and your family. Then, make sure you demand this from your team. It's your right and it's your life.
