You can compare many things when trying to choose the best Cancer hospital. You can compare all types of stats, charts and even hospital ranks. But just because a hospital is ranked #1 doesn’t mean it is the right choice for you. Many people forget a very simple but important aspect when searching for the best Cancer Hospital. The most forgotten aspect is something called patient comfort. This might even be the most important aspect of all. I will explain why.
Travel time to your Cancer Hospital.
Whether you are searching for yourself or searching for a loved one, take everything into consideration. For different people this might mean different things. For someone who has mobility problems, travel time and distance will make a huge difference. Even with no mobility issues, not everyone enjoys long distance drives. The more time you spend on things like traveling, the less you spend on more important things. Time is very valuable. In my honest opinion.
Doctor Appointments add up quickly.
You might want to also think ahead and figure out if traveling long distance to every doctor apt. is doable. Doctor appointments and treatments can add up very quickly. Depending on the type of cancer and various other issues, weekly or daily visits might be needed. Also think about who will be driving you? Yourself? A loved one? Will that other person be available or willing to drive longer distances? What if an emergency happens? Will you be forced to use a local hospital if an emergency occurs? And finally don’t forget those costly fuel prices. Those add up also.
Out of state Cancer Hospital.
Depending on where you live, hospital choices can be fairly limited. Some cancer patients decide to go much further then just a longer drive to a somewhat local hospital. Some decide to go to a hospital out of state. This can also mean traveling in a car for every appointment or actually temporarily leaving home to stay closer. Doing something so drastic can have both positive and negative effects. It’s a good idea to really make sure this path is the right one before making a final decision. Making a quick decision could become a big mistake. Especially in the long run. Plus it saves time doing things right the first time.
Traveling can cause unneeded stress.
For certain people traveling to new places and going to the unknown can create a lot of stress. Stress is definitely not something a cancer patient needs more of. The added financial responsibility of packing up and leaving home can also be a limiting factor. Maybe being closer to home will be where your’re most happy? Maybe a temporary move will be an adventure and could be exciting? These are all simple questions you should ask yourself. Everyone is Different. You only know the answer.
Think simple.
All these things seem to be common sense, but as soon as problems start adding up it can be hard to think straight. That’s why I wrote this article so you don’t forget about the simple things that can make a big difference. Breaking things down into simpler terms is always a good idea. It makes everything easier. Try it. You will be surprised.
No Cancer hospital is perfect.
Just keep in mind that looking for the best Cancer hospital is not as easy as looking at a ranking chart. Sometimes you will have to make sacrifices for the overall good. Maybe going to a local hospital even though it’s not rated #1 is the best choice. Verses traveling long distance to one that is. Weigh the pros and cons to any decision you make. Do what’s best for you as a person. In the end, you know yourself better then anyone. These tips should give you a new perspective. Now use that to find the perfect cancer hospital for you. Check out the Top 50 Cancer Hospitals based on rank to help you decide. Remember that a chart is only as good as how you use it.
