The amount of paper generated by a cancer diagnosis can quickly become overwhelming. Below are tips for keeping cancer information organized and accessible.

> Create a summary with official treatment regimen and any other regularly needed information, important phone numbers and relevant health information, such as the nutritional supplements the patient takes and other health issues.

> Keep a calendar for appointments.

> Detail accounts of the patient’s treatment plan, including possible side effects.

> Write lists of questions for appointments. It’s easy for the patient to forget what was on his or her mind the previous week. Store extra paper for note-taking.

> Keep sections for each doctor, as well as for pathology, radiology and lab reports.

> Get a business card holder to store contact information for the patient’s medical and support team.

> Bring waiting room entertainment, such as Sudoku, reading materials or crossword puzzles.

> Classify information into simple categories, such as background, treatment options, side effects and clinical trials. This simple step will pay dividends down the road. You may need several binders or a filing cabinet to keep all the information under control.

> File all explanation of benefits, bills and other correspondence with the insurance company in one section. Take notes, including names and dates, of any conversations you have with insurance companies.

Various cancer nonprofits, such as the Lance Armstrong Foundation and the American Cancer Society, offer free resources for patients and caregivers. Visit cancer.org/caregivers to find a home care guide that discusses how to handle specific side effects and symptoms, as well as information on nutrition for cancer patients, pain control and choosing home care or hospice services. You can also download worksheets in English and Spanish that cover treatment, legal and practical issues at livestrong.org.  

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