stage 1. Hi grade cancer.
Lesion 1cm on the soft palate noticed 3 months ago.

Had biopsy and CT Scan. No MRI. So far they felt it'd be a waste of time and money as the tumor is very small and lymph nodes look ok. Does this make sense.


Have no insurance so probably will use one of the county hospitals in Los Angeles. The residents would perform the surgery and be supervised by more experienced surgeon.

Is the care in county and state hospitals inferior to well known hospitals and cancer centers? Should I try to somehow be seen in those hospitals instead?

So far I've seen a resident and will be seeing others: dentist, radiation therapist etc.
Recommended treatement so far:
Surgery and possibly radiation.
Neck dissection not recommended at this point.

I feel some intermittent minor pain (difficulty swallowing) in the throat intermittently but docs see nothing in throat with the light.

Any advice is welcome.