Play 2
Play 2: The First 48-Hour Checklist
Strategic moves to make before the first specialist appointment.
01 / Designate a "Point Person"
You cannot answer 50 "How are you?" texts while in the ER or oncology office. Pick one person to handle the group chats and updates. For me personally, because our network is massive between Kacey's career, friends from all over, and both of our families, I created a Facebook group where I post updates on. For my own sanity, I turned off the ability for others to make posts, and they can only comment on my posts (but if that is overwhelming, turn that off too!).
02 / Request Every Digital Record
Ensure you have the login to the patient portal. You need digital access to the pathology reports and MRI scans immediately—do not wait for physical copies.
03 / The "Grab-and-Go" Bag
Pack a bag with an extra-long phone charger, a heavy sweatshirt (hospitals are always freezing), snacks, an extra drink, and a notebook. Keep this by the door for every appointment. Ours also contains catheter supplies and anti-seizure medication.Â
04 / Verify Insurance/VA Navigation
Call the nurse navigator or the VA coordinator to confirm that the pending specialist is in-network. This prevents a financial headache later.
05 / Clear the Calendar
Cancel every non-essential meeting or social obligation for the next 7 days. Your only job right now is the "Scouting Report."
