Talking About Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): A Guide for Discussions With Your Care Team

Talking About Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): A Guide for Discussions With Your Care Team is a patient-focused resource designed to help individuals living with CML actively participate in their care and treatment decisions. The guide provides practical tools and conversation starters to support meaningful discussions with healthcare providers about diagnosis, treatment options, symptom management, side effects, personal goals, and emotional well-being.

Readers will learn about the members of a multidisciplinary CML care team, strategies for preparing for appointments, and key questions to ask throughout their treatment journey. The resource also encourages patients to reflect on how treatment may affect their daily lives, relationships, work, and long-term goals, helping them engage in shared decision-making with their care team.

Also, this guide addresses common challenges associated with CML, including managing treatment side effects, navigating financial concerns, seeking emotional and social support, considering second opinions, and accessing trusted resources for patients and caregivers.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the roles of different healthcare professionals involved in CML care and how they can support your medical, emotional, and practical needs.
• Prepare for appointments with questions about diagnosis, treatment options, side effects, and long-term treatment goals.
• Track and discuss symptoms, side effects, and quality-of-life concerns to help optimize treatment and supportive care.
• Use goal-setting exercises to identify personal priorities and incorporate them into treatment decisions through shared decision-making.
• Access resources for financial assistance, caregiver support, emotional wellness, and trusted CML information.

Sponsors/Partners: Blood Cancer United | Novartis