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Can a Dr refuse to tell a patient about the progress of their cancer after the patient has refused treatment (Chemo)?
My dad was diagnosed with cancer 2yrs ago and he refused to get Chemo. He went the natural route instead of medical.So he and his wife went to the Dr’s recently to see if they can tell him the progress of it and they don’t want to help him because he refused treatment before
5 Answers
- A HunchLv 72 weeks ago
A doctor is not required to treat a patient.
If the doctor would rather spend their time on patients that who are "following doctors orders" or at least using the doctor as a partner in their treatment, that's the doctor's option.
Seems like your dad should select another doctor. One that he might like to use as a partner in this treatment.
- Lisa MLv 43 weeks ago
I read some of the answers and this is a dilemma. I'm not sure why your father went back to the same oncologist. Did the oncologist previously give the impression that your father could go back any time and still be treated? Because that's what it sounds like to me. I don't think the oncologist should refuse to do tests. That seems unethical. And every patient has the right to refuse treatment. Otherwise, oncologists would be forcing differing treatments on people who didn't want a certain treatment. I think your father can get some tests done elsewhere. Or perhaps get the family doctor to refer him to another oncologist at another hospital altogether.
- Andy CLv 73 weeks ago
Absolutely. If you refuse treatment, it's entirely up to the doctor's prerogative.
- TarkarriLv 73 weeks ago
The oncologist recommended a treatment plan.
Your father refused.
The oncologist provided no further treatment, effectively your father removed himself as a patient.
Your father would have to get referred by his regular doctor for further testing.
The oncologist is fully involved with patients who are following treatment plans.
Most are happy to explain various parts of a treatment plan, discuss modifications of a treatment plan etc.
Sounds like your father opted for no treatment plan at all.