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Dr referral for MD ANDERSON for stage 4 melonmia

Forums General Melanoma Community Dr referral for MD ANDERSON for stage 4 melonmia

  • Post
    nickmark
    Participant
      With bad luck in the past on just getting the Dr they give you, we’re asking for help. We have done alot of research and want a Dr to go over all treatment and clinical trial options weather at their location or another state.. Thanks
    Viewing 5 reply threads
    • Replies
        Wheels1994
        Participant

          I know a lot about MD Anderson.  I had treatment there for a 6 month period.

          Your message is a little confusing.  What exactly are you looking for?  

          I was treated by Dr. Patrick Hwu.  He's a rock star.  Trained with Rosenberg and pioneered immunotherapy and TIL.  He's #1 in my book.

          However, every single melanoma doc at MD Anderson is "A+".

          I truly believe going to MDA saved my life, and will save my life in the future should things worsen.  As a patient there I not only have access to any trials being offered, but the elite network of docs across the country who are on the cutting edge of treatment options.  

          I know there are other great places to go for treatment.  I interviewed a few of the best.  If I were you and my life were on the line, I'd get there ASAP.

          True story-  I was in your boat.  I live in Indiana.  I had been trying to get in to see Dr. Hwu for a couple weeks.  Calling and emailing every day.  I got a call one day at 8:30am that he had an opening at 3pm that afternoon.  While I was on the phone with them, I got into my car and drove straight to the airport.  Got lucky that Southwest flies direct and it only cost me $400 for the one way ticket.  I was in Houston by 1pm.  

          Wheels1994
          Participant

            I know a lot about MD Anderson.  I had treatment there for a 6 month period.

            Your message is a little confusing.  What exactly are you looking for?  

            I was treated by Dr. Patrick Hwu.  He's a rock star.  Trained with Rosenberg and pioneered immunotherapy and TIL.  He's #1 in my book.

            However, every single melanoma doc at MD Anderson is "A+".

            I truly believe going to MDA saved my life, and will save my life in the future should things worsen.  As a patient there I not only have access to any trials being offered, but the elite network of docs across the country who are on the cutting edge of treatment options.  

            I know there are other great places to go for treatment.  I interviewed a few of the best.  If I were you and my life were on the line, I'd get there ASAP.

            True story-  I was in your boat.  I live in Indiana.  I had been trying to get in to see Dr. Hwu for a couple weeks.  Calling and emailing every day.  I got a call one day at 8:30am that he had an opening at 3pm that afternoon.  While I was on the phone with them, I got into my car and drove straight to the airport.  Got lucky that Southwest flies direct and it only cost me $400 for the one way ticket.  I was in Houston by 1pm.  

            Wheels1994
            Participant

              I know a lot about MD Anderson.  I had treatment there for a 6 month period.

              Your message is a little confusing.  What exactly are you looking for?  

              I was treated by Dr. Patrick Hwu.  He's a rock star.  Trained with Rosenberg and pioneered immunotherapy and TIL.  He's #1 in my book.

              However, every single melanoma doc at MD Anderson is "A+".

              I truly believe going to MDA saved my life, and will save my life in the future should things worsen.  As a patient there I not only have access to any trials being offered, but the elite network of docs across the country who are on the cutting edge of treatment options.  

              I know there are other great places to go for treatment.  I interviewed a few of the best.  If I were you and my life were on the line, I'd get there ASAP.

              True story-  I was in your boat.  I live in Indiana.  I had been trying to get in to see Dr. Hwu for a couple weeks.  Calling and emailing every day.  I got a call one day at 8:30am that he had an opening at 3pm that afternoon.  While I was on the phone with them, I got into my car and drove straight to the airport.  Got lucky that Southwest flies direct and it only cost me $400 for the one way ticket.  I was in Houston by 1pm.  

              AshleyS
              Participant

                I agree with Matt, every doctor on the Melanoma floor is great. I'm stage 4 with a few ugly spots all over and on my liver. I see Dr. Glitza and adore her on every level. I've also had the chance to meet/talk to both Dr. Hwus, Dr. Patel, and Dr. Davies (plus other melanoma surgeons and dermatologists). They've all been great. Additionally, when you are a new patient, your entire case is presented in front of the department and all the doctors discuss the best plan for you.

                I just started at MDA in March after being seen at Mayo Clinic previously. It took a couple weeks to get in and to have referrals for my insurance approved. I flew from ND to Houston and back in one week for my consult. A week later I started the ipi + anti PD1 combo trial in TX. 

                When I first met with Dr. G, she basically made a flow chart listing my options. (I'm a teacher, so I loved that!) She listed all the standard treatments, the trials, and the "tricks" or reserve treatments (TIL, etc.). Then she presented my case to the department and made her recommendation to me. 

                I cannot tell you how good being at MD Anderson makes me feel. I've temporarily moved my little family to TX to be here. 

                Best of luck!

                Ashey

                AshleyS
                Participant

                  I agree with Matt, every doctor on the Melanoma floor is great. I'm stage 4 with a few ugly spots all over and on my liver. I see Dr. Glitza and adore her on every level. I've also had the chance to meet/talk to both Dr. Hwus, Dr. Patel, and Dr. Davies (plus other melanoma surgeons and dermatologists). They've all been great. Additionally, when you are a new patient, your entire case is presented in front of the department and all the doctors discuss the best plan for you.

                  I just started at MDA in March after being seen at Mayo Clinic previously. It took a couple weeks to get in and to have referrals for my insurance approved. I flew from ND to Houston and back in one week for my consult. A week later I started the ipi + anti PD1 combo trial in TX. 

                  When I first met with Dr. G, she basically made a flow chart listing my options. (I'm a teacher, so I loved that!) She listed all the standard treatments, the trials, and the "tricks" or reserve treatments (TIL, etc.). Then she presented my case to the department and made her recommendation to me. 

                  I cannot tell you how good being at MD Anderson makes me feel. I've temporarily moved my little family to TX to be here. 

                  Best of luck!

                  Ashey

                  AshleyS
                  Participant

                    I agree with Matt, every doctor on the Melanoma floor is great. I'm stage 4 with a few ugly spots all over and on my liver. I see Dr. Glitza and adore her on every level. I've also had the chance to meet/talk to both Dr. Hwus, Dr. Patel, and Dr. Davies (plus other melanoma surgeons and dermatologists). They've all been great. Additionally, when you are a new patient, your entire case is presented in front of the department and all the doctors discuss the best plan for you.

                    I just started at MDA in March after being seen at Mayo Clinic previously. It took a couple weeks to get in and to have referrals for my insurance approved. I flew from ND to Houston and back in one week for my consult. A week later I started the ipi + anti PD1 combo trial in TX. 

                    When I first met with Dr. G, she basically made a flow chart listing my options. (I'm a teacher, so I loved that!) She listed all the standard treatments, the trials, and the "tricks" or reserve treatments (TIL, etc.). Then she presented my case to the department and made her recommendation to me. 

                    I cannot tell you how good being at MD Anderson makes me feel. I've temporarily moved my little family to TX to be here. 

                    Best of luck!

                    Ashey

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