Also, go to all the consults and examinations -- this gets you into the loop -- I never had any probems with HIPPA at any of the places we went (including local hospital) but my husband did have an advanced directive /durable power of attorney document. The State of Maryland has one on their web page which is accepted at all medical institutions in the state. The laws in other states probably differ.

You may well have to take the lead on asking questions and helping your fiance make decisions on treatment -- he is going to have enough on his hands dealing with the treatment and its side effects. MDAnderson has social support people to help you deal with hospital bureaucracy as well...

The more you know the better you will be able to help and support your fiance through treatment.

Gail


CG to husband Barry, dx. 7/21/05, age 66, SCC rgt. tonsil, BOT, 2 nodes (stg. IV), HPV+, tonsillectomy, 7x carboplatin, 35x tomoTherapy IMRT w/ Ethyol @ Johns Hopkins, thru treatment 9/28/05, HPV vaccine trial 12/06-present. Looking good!