Building your RRMM care team
Living with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) often comes with a lot of uncertainty. If you have already been through several treatments, you may be holding onto hope for what comes next while also feeling worn down by everything you have already faced.
Care at this point is no longer just about choosing the next treatment option. It’s about being supported, managing the side effects, and having people around you who truly understand what you need — both medically and personally.
A strong RRMM care team can help you navigate decisions, catch symptoms early, and support your quality of life as your needs change over time. Every team looks a little different, but having a well-rounded care team can make the path ahead feel less overwhelming.
Core members of your RRMM team
The core members of your RRMM team are usually responsible for treatment decisions and day-to-day disease management.
Hematolo-oncologist
Your hemato-oncologist typically leads your RRMM care team. This provider specializes in blood cancers and helps guide treatment choices, monitors how the disease is responding, and adjusts plans when needed. If seeing a hematologist who focuses on multiple myeloma is not possible, an oncologist may lead your care in consultation with a hematologist.
In relapsed or refractory disease, treatment conversations can feel more complicated — especially if past therapies were difficult or if you tried many types of treatment. It is OK to ask questions, ask for clarification, or take time to process what you’re hearing.
Writing down questions ahead of appointments and bringing someone you trust with you can help you feel more prepared and supported during these discussions.
Advanced practice providers and oncology nurses
Nurse practitioners and physician assistants, known collectively as advanced practice providers, often play a central role in ongoing RRMM care. They are highly skilled providers who may handle follow-up visits, check in with you on side effects, and help coordinate care between appointments.
Many people find these providers especially helpful when dealing with symptoms that affect daily life, such as fatigue, pain, or nausea.
Oncology nurses are often the most consistent point of contact throughout treatment. They may administer therapies, explain medications, and help you understand when something warrants a phone call to your care team.
Knowing how — and when — to reach your nursing team can provide reassurance between visits.
Supporting specialists and providers
As RRMM treatment continues, other specialists may become involved to help support your comfort, well-being, and overall health.
Pharmacists and medication support
Pharmacists can help you understand how your medications work, how to take them safely, and which side effects to watch for. This support can be especially valuable if you are juggling multiple prescriptions or supplements.
Pharmacists may also help with insurance approvals and specialty pharmacy coordination, easing some of the logistical burden that can come with treatment.
Symptom management and palliative care
Symptoms such as pain, fatigue, bone problems, or shortness of breath can have a real impact on daily life. Palliative care specialists, such as rehabilitation specialists, help manage symptoms and offer comfort and support, regardless of where you are in your RRMM journey.
These providers may help with:
- Pain and symptom control: addressing discomfort, fatigue, or breathing issues
- Medication adjustments: finding options that are effective and tolerable
- Quality of life support: helping you stay engaged in activities that matter to you
Many people find that involving these specialists earlier helps keep symptoms from becoming overwhelming and adds another layer of support.
Mental health and emotional support
RRMM can take an emotional toll, not just a physical one. Counselors, psychologists, or social workers can offer a safe space to talk through stress, anxiety, or uncertainty. They can help you develop coping strategies for difficult moments and help you manage symptoms such as pain and fatigue.
Seeking mental health support does not mean you are not coping well. It means you are taking care of yourself — and that matters.
Primary care provider
Your primary care provider is still an important part of your care. This doctor helps manage other health conditions, oversees routine care, and coordinates with your oncology team. Keeping everyone informed can help ensure that symptoms and concerns are addressed more effectively.
The role of caregivers and loved ones
Caregivers and loved ones are essential members of your RRMM care team, even though they are not medical professionals.
They may help in many ways, including:
- Practical support: transportation, medication reminders, or help with daily tasks
- Emotional support: listening, encouraging, and being present on hard days
- Appointment support: taking notes, asking questions, or helping process information afterward
Caregiving can be demanding, and it’s important to have open, gentle communication with your caregivers. Encouraging loved ones to take breaks, ask for help, and care for their own well-being can strengthen the entire team. Supporting one another is part of sustainable, compassionate care.
Building a team that works for you
There is no such thing as a “right” RRMM care team. Your needs may change over time, and your team will likely change with those needs. If things are not going well, whether it’s communication, symptom management, accessing care, or improving your quality of life, it’s reasonable to speak up.
The creation of your RRMM care team is about surrounding yourself with people who can help you make sense of the unknown with clarity, compassion, and care.
Rare Cancer News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
