Your GP will arrange the first tests to assess your symptoms. If these tests do not rule out cancer, you will usually be referred to a specialist, such as a haematologist. Occasionally in regional areas, people may see a medical oncologist instead. The specialist will arrange further tests.
If myeloma is diagnosed, the specialist will consider treatment options. These will be discussed with other health professionals at what is known as a multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting. During and after treatment, you will see a range of health professionals who specialise in different aspects of your care.
Health professionals you may see
| GP | assists you with treatment decisions and works in partnership with your specialists in providing ongoing care |
| haematologist* | diagnoses and treats diseases of the bone marrow, blood and lymphatic system; prescribes chemotherapy and other drug therapies |
| radiation oncologist* | treats cancer by prescribing and overseeing a course of radiation therapy |
| pathologist* | examines cells and tissue samples to determine the type and extent of the myeloma |
| cancer care coordinator | coordinates your care, liaises with other members of the MDT and supports you and your family throughout treatment; care may also be coordinated by a clinical nurse consultant (CNC) or clinical nurse specialist (CNS) |
| nurse | administers drugs and provides care, information and support throughout treatment |
| pain management team | consists of pain specialists and nurses who work together to treat pain, particularly if it is difficult to control |
| dietitian | recommends an eating plan to follow during treatment and recovery |
| social worker | links you to support services and helps you with emotional, practical and financial issues |
| physiotherapist | helps with restoring movement and mobility, and preventing further injury |
| occupational therapist | assists in adapting your living and working environment to help you resume usual activities after treatment |
| counsellor, psychologist | help you understand and manage your emotional response to diagnosis and treatment |
Listen to our podcasts on Making Treatment Decisions and Coping with a Cancer Diagnosis
Additional resources
Prof John Gibson, Haematologist, Institute of Haematology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and The University of Sydney, NSW; Dr Stephanie Anderson, Registrar, Institute of Haematology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, NSW; Tanya Carney, Consumer; Jacqui Keogh, NSW State Manager/Senior Myeloma Nurse NSW, Myeloma Australia; Dr Silvia Ling, Haematologist, Liverpool Hospital, NSW; Rachel McCann, Myeloma Support Nurse NSW, Myeloma Australia; John McMath, Consumer; Karen Robinson, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council NSW.
View the Cancer Council NSW editorial policy.
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