Multiple Myeloma Care at Stanford Health Care

1Getting Started In Your Care

2Getting Your Diagnosis

3Planning Your Treatment

4Undergoing Treatment & Follow-Up

Understanding Multiple Myeloma
A leading Stanford Health Care researcher explains how multiple myeloma is diagnosed and characterized to reveal recommended options for treatment. This video is intended for use by staff of Stanford Health Care. No representatives or warranties are made for outside use. Not for reproduction or publication without permission. Published August 2018 Stanford Health Care © 2018


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Your doctors

Hematologist

A hematologist provides diagnosis and treatment for adults with blood cancers such as multiple myeloma or leukemia.

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Blood And Marrow Transplant Specialist

A blood and marrow specialist doctor is trained in therapy to transfer healthy bone marrow cells into a patient after their own unhealthy bone marrow has been eliminated.

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Extended care team

Advanced practice provider
Multidisciplinary care coordinator
Clinical administrative assistants
Medical assistant
New patient coordinator
General FAQs
What is an oncologist?
What is comprehensive care?
What is an academic medical center?
What is magnet recognition?
What is our connection to the National Cancer Institute?
From Patients
How can I deal with my anxiety and fear? How can I cope?

Call PathWell at 650-498-6000 to speak with us about how we can support you and your family members. PathWell is Stanford’s system of services that support physical, mental, and emotional healing and well-being.

We can help you identify professional therapists, services, and resources that are personalized to the needs of you and your family. Many of these services are free for Stanford patients and families.

Can my family member or friend attend my appointment?
My children are having a hard time coping with my diagnosis. How can I help them?

The decision about whether and how much to share with your children is personal. Call PathWell at 650-498-6000 to learn about the support available for your family members.

What is an advance health care directive? Where do I get one?

An advance health care directive is a legal document you can complete. It specifies the kind of care and treatments you want (or don’t want) if you become seriously ill and can’t make such decisions yourself.

In California, an advance health care directive allows you to designate an agent, or someone you trust to make health care decisions on your behalf. You can also list your health care instructions. You can ask your doctor, nurse, social worker, or other health care provider for more information.

At Stanford, advance health care directive forms are available in the hospital units and at the clinics. You can also call our Spiritual Care Service at 650-723-5101 to get a form or discuss a directive with one of our spiritual care counselors.

What should I expect after treatment?

Our Cancer Survivorship Program will help you adjust and cope with your new lifestyle after treatment for cancer. You’ll speak with Advance Practice Providers (APPs), survivorship experts who specialize in working with people with cancer and their families.

We help you and your family transition from diagnosis to wellness through a variety of psychosocial services, in addition to medical care. Call 650-498-6000 or Cancer Survivorship Program.

Whom can I talk to about my work and job during treatment?

Our social workers can help you plan ways to manage your job during cancer care. Call PathWell at 650-498-6000 to speak with us about your work-related concerns. We can help you with completing disability paperwork, finding financial assistance, and taking a leave of absence from your job during treatment.

From Family and Caregivers
How can I offer support during medical appointments or treatment

You can provide support to a loved one receiving care in many ways. You can help with day-to-day activities such as accompanying them on doctor visits or preparing food, for example. You can also coordinate care and services by phone or email.

For coping, often the best support you can provide is helping your loved one work through feelings. Talk with your loved one, listen, or just be present. Although you may naturally feel inclined to put your own feelings and needs aside, it’s important to take care of yourself as well. Call PathWell at 650-498-6000 to speak with someone about seeking support for your loved one and yourself.

How do I balance the needs of the patient with my own needs?
I’m exhausted. Whom can I talk to about my feelings?

Remember that you are not alone – you can find support among other caregivers. We offer workshops, support groups, and other programs for people who have cancer and their caregivers. Talk with your care team or call PathWell at 650-498-6000 for more details about our cancer supportive care programs at Palo Alto and South Bay.

How do I tell my family and friends about the diagnosis? How do I answer all the questions people ask me?
What are the side effects of treatment? How do I help manage these side effects?
What hotels are near Stanford if I need to stay overnight?

Learn More About Multiple Myeloma