This is true uptown, sadly from what I gather from many of the patients we've had here from india their medical drs. seem to not follow the guidelines and frankly this is why their outcomes have been poor. This is why I suggested he print off the list and wave it at the dr. there is a reason these guidelines exist because they have proven to this point to be the most effective way of treating this cancer. a series of missteps from the beginning (not following the guidelines) can cost the patient valuable time, money and ultimately their lives. Regardless of where you are being treated - whatever country you are in, you should be seeking out the best treatment available to you. I know finances come into play particularly if you pay for your own medical care... it's sad because quality medical care should be the one thing available to all - but ideally when you or a loved one is sick you do whatever you can.

hugs.

Thanks for the clarification. I looked at this page and just saw USA and did not pick up on the global alliances.

Unfortunately, the "comparison" in nearly all developing countries shows how far their own standards are from complying with NCCN guidelines.

Cheryl,

I totally agree every patient should seek the best care available to them. Having NCCN guidelines in hand does empower the patient to know what is possible and at least inquire about the possibilities of the various defined options.

At least they can seek and push for the very best treatment and care options that resources allow. Thanks Don

Dear all, I would differ from your opinions. India does certainly have one good health care infrastructure with excellent health care professionals, however, the infrastructure is heavily loaded.

The cancer treatment that we get is almost same as what you would get in US or other developed countries, however, we do not have access to experimental drugs due to government regulations.

Secondly, Doctors do not share too much details about disease, treatment, prognosis with the patients or caregiver due to the way people react here.

One of the reasons for bad outcome here is also due to Hospital and Doctor hopping that people tend to do here during course of treatment. If somebody comes and tells you here that their so-and-so got treated in xyz hospital, you would switch hospital and doctor. They also go for alternative medicines (read Ayurveda, Unani, Homeopathy etc).

I think we are still missing an organized guidance and counseling system in India. Hopefully that would change.