How can you help when someone with myeloma refuses treatment or won't engage with their care team?
This is a challenging situation, but there are several approaches that might help. Understanding the barriers they're facing is the first step.
Common reasons people disengage from myeloma care include
- Financial concerns Show Full Answer
How can you help when someone with myeloma refuses treatment or won't engage with their care team?
This is a challenging situation, but there are several approaches that might help. Understanding the barriers they're facing is the first step.
Common reasons people disengage from myeloma care include:
- Financial concerns about affording medication or treatment
- Transportation difficulties getting to appointments
- Feeling overwhelmed by the diagnosis (like "a bomb going off")
- Lack of social support
- Fear or confusion about treatment options
- Unbearable side effects from current treatments
Encouraging open communication with the care team is crucial. The person needs to know that doctors can often help overcome these challenges if they understand what's happening. There are no dumb questions, and health care providers want to work in partnership with patients.
If possible, help them prepare for appointments by writing down concerns beforehand. Sometimes having someone accompany them to appointments can provide support and help them process information better.
Resources like patient navigation centers, financial assistance programs, and counseling services exist specifically to help people stay engaged with treatment. The cancer center may have resources that aren't widely publicized unless someone asks.
Remember that sticking with treatment gives the best chance for remission and quality of life, but the person needs to feel heard and supported in addressing whatever barriers are keeping them from engaging.
December 21, 2025
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