All.Can Patient Survey

Sofia * (Italy) During one year, I consulted three specialists at my own expense. After three negative medical opinions, I had peace of mind. But when I eventually saw another specialist, he immediately arranged an operation. A week later, he phoned to confirm that it was cancer, and that I needed a second operation. I considered that phone call a gesture of kindness; he wanted to inform me immediately, as I had asked. But the diagnosis could have been made a year earlier. I chose to do all the diagnosis and the surgical operations at my own expense , because I found it difficult to get an appointment in a public hospital – especially at 8.30am to fit around work. Cancer treatments have had a heavy impact on my work. My job required me to travel a lot and did not allow for long absences. After the first two operations to remove the primary cancer, I had another seven preventive operations. After each operation, I needed to be off work for two weeks. The psychological impact has also been very hard. I had to face fears and make tough decisions. Each operation left marks on my body, which has been difficult to accept. During these years of analysis and examinations, I have never been offered any psychological support, nor had I been advised about patient support groups. I paid for psychological aid at my own expense. Through personal online research, I discovered support networks. I have become an active member of an association that offers support. Meeting other patients, who understand and know exactly what you are experiencing, is of enormous importance. The financial impact of my cancer has been significant. At the time, I had private health insurance – an optional benefit of my job. It covered about 40% of the total expenses, and I paid the rest out of my own pocket. But after quitting my job, I had to subscribe to new health insurance. It includes oncologic expenses in the case of primary tumours, but not any risks related to previously diagnosed cancer – unless you pay impossible premiums. The experience of having cancer in my 30s changed my perspective on life. I decided to make a career change; now I work with my partner, so I can spend more time with him and I have a more peaceful approach to work. I began to ask myself: how do I want to live my life from now on? In my case, it led to a profound change of my priorities and a reorganisation of my life – to give more value to myself rather than other people’s expectations. * Names and some other identifying elements have been changed to protect patients’ anonymity. Patient stories 55 Patient insights on cancer care: opportunities for improving efficiency