Who to Call for Help During Cancer Treatment: A Patient’s Guide to Support & Emergencies

When you’re diagnosed with cancer, knowing who to turn to—especially in moments of uncertainty—can make all the difference. Whether you're managing new side effects, interpreting lab results, or facing an emergency, this guide outlines who to call during cancer treatment and when to reach out for support. From your oncologist and nurse navigator to emergency services and your cancer care advocate, here's how to take action and get the help you need.

Looking for a broader plan to follow after diagnosis? Read: 10 Things to Do After a Cancer Diagnosis.

Who to Call and When During Cancer Treatment ⤵️

1. Your Oncologist’s Office

Call if you:

• Have new or worsening symptoms (fever, pain, shortness of breath, confusion)

• Need clarification on your diagnosis, treatment plan, or scan results

• Are experiencing severe or persistent side effects

Ask:

• “Is this symptom normal, or should I come in today?”

• “Can we review my current treatment goals again?”

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2. Your Oncology Nurse or Nurse Navigator

Call if you:

• Need help understanding medical terms or what to expect from treatment

• Feel anxious or unsure about an upcoming appointment

• Don’t know whether a symptom requires urgent care

Ask:

• “Can you explain this lab result in simpler terms?”

• “What should I bring to my next appointment?”

Related: What Is a Cancer Patient Advocate?

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3. Oncology Pharmacist or Specialty Pharmacy

Call if you:

• Missed a dose or need help managing medication side effects

• Have questions about how to take your prescriptions

• Need a refill or delivery support

Ask:

• “Is it safe to take this over-the-counter supplement with my treatment?”

• “What should I do if I forgot a dose?”

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4. Your Primary Care Provider (PCP)

Call if you:

• Need help managing non-cancer conditions (like blood pressure or infections)

• Need mental health support or general wellness screenings

• Want to coordinate whole-person care

Ask:

• “Can you work with my oncologist on my overall care plan?”

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5. Your Cancer Care Advocate (like Nurse Amy!)

Call if you:

• Feel overwhelmed or unsure about your next steps

• Need help understanding your treatment plan or preparing for an appointment

• Need support navigating insurance, second opinions, or supportive resources

Ask:

• “Can you help me clarify what questions to ask at my next appointment?”

• “Are there support services I can access right now?”

👉 Need personalized guidance? Book a free consultation with Nurse Amy today.

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6. Insurance Case Manager or Billing Department

Call if you:

• Need pre-approval for a test, treatment, or medication

• Received a bill you don’t understand

• Have questions about what your insurance will cover

Ask:

• “Is this service covered by my insurance?”

• “Can you walk me through what I owe and why?”

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7. Social Worker or Financial Counselor

Call if you:

• Are stressed about the cost of care or copays

• Need help applying for financial assistance or transportation

• Have work-related concerns due to your diagnosis

Ask:

• “Are there grants or assistance programs available for me?”

• “Can you help me complete this disability or aid application?”

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8. Palliative Care Team

Call if you:

• Experience chronic pain, fatigue, or nausea

• Want to improve your quality of life during or after treatment

Ask:

• “Can I meet with the palliative care team to manage my symptoms better?”

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9. Mental Health Support

Call if you:

• Feel anxious, depressed, or emotionally overwhelmed

• You need coping tools for yourself or your family.

• Are having trouble sleeping or focusing

Ask:

• “Can I speak to someone who understands the emotional side of cancer?”

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10. Emergency Services (Call 911 or Go to the ER)

Recognizing medical emergencies is essential during cancer care. Call your oncologist or go to the ER right away if you experience:

🚨 Fever and Neutropenia

• Fever over 100.4°F (38°C) during chemotherapy

• Chills, sweating, flu-like symptoms

Why it’s serious: May signal a life-threatening infection due to a weakened immune system.

💧 Dehydration

• Dry mouth, dizziness, dark urine

• Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours

Why it matters: Can worsen side effects and interrupt treatment.

❤️ Anemia

• Pale skin, weakness, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath

Why it matters: May indicate dangerously low red blood cells.

🩸 Bleeding or Low Platelets

• Bruising, bleeding gums, blood in stool or urine

Why it matters: Could be a sign of thrombocytopenia (low platelets).

😮‍💨 Chest Pain or Shortness of Breath

• Trouble breathing, pressure in your chest

Why it matters: Could signal a blood clot, heart problem, or lung issue.

😵 Confusion or Severe Weakness

• Disorientation, fainting, sudden mental changes

Why it matters: May result from low sodium, neurological symptoms, or infection.

🤢 Persistent Vomiting or Diarrhea

• Unable to keep fluids down for over 24 hours

Why it matters: Can cause dangerous dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Not sure whether to call? Do it. It’s always safer to speak up.

You're Not Alone

Having a clear care network can reduce fear and help you feel supported every step of the way. If you're navigating cancer and aren’t sure where to start, Nurse Amy is here to help. 👉 Book a free consultation with Cancer Care Advocacy