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Esophageal Cancer: Symptoms

May 24, 2023

GI Cancer

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What are the symptoms of esophageal cancer?

Esophageal cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms in its early stages, when it's small and hasn't spread. When this cancer does cause symptoms, they’re often like those you might have with other health issues, such as indigestion.

Early symptoms of esophageal cancer might be:

Trouble swallowing. Swallowing dry solid foods, such as meat, bread, or raw vegetables may be especially hard.
Pain when swallowing
Pressure or burning in your chest (behind your breastbone)
A feeling that food is stuck in your throat
Weight loss
Heartburn
Indigestion
Frequent choking

As esophageal cancer gets worse and the tumor grows, symptoms can become more severe. You may have:

Trouble swallowing liquids
Trouble swallowing saliva
Hoarseness
Coughing
Vomiting
Black stool, which is caused by bleeding in the esophagus

When to see your healthcare provider

Many of these symptoms can be caused by other health problems. It’s important to see a healthcare provider if you have these symptoms. Only a healthcare provider can tell if you have esophageal cancer or some other problem that may need to be treated.

Healthcare provider examining woman's neck.

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HMN is a healthcare network based in the Philippines under Ayala Corporation’s AC Health. It comprises of Healthway Clinics, Healthway Hospitals, and Healthway Specialty Hospital—the Healthway Cancer Care Hospital.

We commit to delivering our pledge of Care Beyond Cure—a promise of providing careful attention to our patients needs beyond extending medical expertise.

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Phone Number

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Email

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HMN Home Service
Terms and Conditions

CONSENT

By using the HMN Home Service, I understand and agree to the following:

I am fully aware that in using the Home Service, my personal information will be collected and processed by the relevant Healthway Medical Network facility where I wish to schedule my consultation (the “Facility”), such as my name, contact details, and reason for consultation, for purposes of processing the appointment and contacting me about possible schedule changes. I understand that my information will be treated in accordance with HMN’s Privacy Policy.

I agree to receive updates via email and phone call or message from the Facility. I may also receive updates about their services or events.

SCOPE AND LIMITATION

I understand that this Home Service is designed for my convenience in scheduling my visit, while the list is intended for walk-in patients. However, there are some limitations to keep in mind:

I understand that the availability displayed may not be completely up-to-date. For urgent concerns, it is best to call the Facility directly.

I acknowledge that the HMN will only send an acknowledgment email, and the Facility will only provide updates about my home service. They will not issue any confirmation, as the list is intended for walk-in patients.

I understand that by using the Home Service portal, my name will be pre-listed with my preferred doctor at my preferred facility on my preferred date. This pre-list will serve both as the walk-in patient’s list on the day of my visit and as a notice to my preferred doctor and facility.

I understand that the HMN will do its best to keep the home service portal running smoothly. However, technical issues may arise that could temporarily limit functionality. The Network cannot be held liable for any inconvenience caused by such technical problems.

DISCLOSURE

I understand that by using this HMN Home Service, some information will be disclosed:

I agree to provide accurate and complete information, including my name, contact details, and the reason for my visit. This information is necessary and may be used to contact me regarding changes or updates. The network assures me that my information will be kept confidential according to HMN’s Privacy Policy.

I agree to receive updates via emails and phone calls or messages from the Facility. The Network may also send updates about services, promos, or events.

ADMINISTRATIVE

I understand that the Facility will only provide updates about my home service and will not issue a confirmation, as the list is intended for walk-in patients.

I also authorize the Facility’s healthcare team to get in touch with me should there be a medical need to do so in the interest of my safety or the safety of others.

HMN Patient Appointment Hub
Terms and Conditions

CONSENT

By using the Patient Appointment Hub, I understand and agree to the following:

I am fully aware that in using the Patient Appointment Hub, my personal information will be collected and processed by the relevant Healthway Medical Network facility where I wish to schedule my appointment(the “Facility”), such as my name, contact details, and reason for my appointment, for purposes of processing the appointment and contacting me about possible schedule changes. I understand that my information will be treated in accordance with HMN’s Privacy Policy.

I understand that the Facility will use its best efforts to fulfill my appointment as scheduled. However, I acknowledge that my appointment may be rescheduled, canceled, or modified due to unforeseen circumstances. The Facility will notify me as soon as possible of any changes.

I agree to receive appointment confirmation and reminders via emails or phone calls and messages from the Facility. I may also receive updates about their services or events.

SCOPE AND LIMITATION

I understand that this Patient Appointment Hub is designed for my convenience in scheduling appointments. However, there are some limitations to keep in mind:

I understand that the availability displayed may not be completely up-to-date. There might be a short delay between my booking and the system reflecting the change. If there will be changes, I understand that the Facility will contact me directly. For urgent concerns or immediate confirmation, I understand that it is best to call the Facility directly.

I understand that the HMN will do its best to keep the online appointment hub running smoothly. However, technical issues may arise that could temporarily limit functionality. The Network cannot be held liable for any inconvenience caused by such technical problems.

DISCLOSURE

I understand that by using this Patient Appointment Hub, some information will be disclosed:

I agree to provide accurate and complete information, including my name, contact details, and the reason for my appointment. This information is necessary to schedule and confirm my appointment and may be used to contact me regarding changes or updates. The Network assures me that my information will be kept confidential according to HMN’s Privacy Policy.

I agree to receive appointment confirmation and reminders via emails and phone calls or messages from the Facility. The Network may also send updates about services, promos, or events.

CANCELING, RESCHEDULING AND REBOOKING

I understand and agree that my appointment can only be canceled or rescheduled within 2 working days prior to my initial schedule.

In case any administrative challenges arise, I understand that a reschedule may be offered to me within the next twenty-four (24) hours from my scheduled appointment. I also understand and agree that I have the right not to accept the new schedule.

ADMINISTRATIVE

I understand that there may be delays with my appointment due to the hospital’s skeletal workforce implementation.

I also authorize the Facility’s healthcare team to get in touch with me should there be a medical need to do so in the interest of my safety or the safety of others.

HPI HMO LOA Online Services
Terms and Conditions

1. Introduction

Welcome to the HMO LOA Portal. By accessing or using this portal, you agree to comply with and be bound by these Terms and Conditions. Please read them carefully.

2. Scope of Services

2.1 User Access and Authentication

The portal provides secure login and authentication for HMO members, healthcare providers, and administrators.

2.2 LOA Request Submission

Members and healthcare providers can submit LOA (Letter of Authorization) requests for medical services, including consultations, treatments, and diagnostic tests.

2.3 Document Management

The portal facilitates the upload, storage, and management of necessary documents related to LOA requests.

2.4 Approval Workflow

A workflow is implemented for the review, approval, or rejection of LOA requests by HMO administrators.

2.5 Reporting and Analytics

The portal generates reports and analytics on LOA requests, approvals, and other relevant metrics for HMO administrators.

2.6 Integration

Integration with existing healthcare provider systems and HMO databases is provided for seamless data exchange.

2.7 User Support

Support resources, including FAQs, user guides, and customer service contact options, are available.

3. Limitations

3.1 Technical Limitations

System Downtime: There may be occasional downtime due to server maintenance or technical issues, which could temporarily prevent access to the portal.
Integration Challenges: There may be difficulties in integrating with diverse healthcare provider systems and ensuring compatibility across different platforms.

3.2 Data Security and Privacy

Data Breach Risk: Despite robust security measures, there is always a residual risk of data breaches that could compromise sensitive patient information.
Compliance Requirements: The portal must comply with various data privacy laws and regulations (e.g., HIPAA), which may vary by region and affect functionality.

3.3 User Accessibility

Internet Access: Users must have reliable internet access to use the portal, which may be a limitation for those in remote or underserved areas.
Technical Proficiency: Some users may lack the technical skills to navigate the portal effectively, necessitating additional support and training.

3.4 Operational Limitations

Approval Delays: The approval process for LOA requests may experience delays due to high volumes of requests or staffing limitations within HMOs.
Incomplete Requests: LOA requests that are incomplete or lack necessary documentation may be delayed, impacting service delivery.

3.5 Scope of Services

Service Coverage: The portal is limited to managing LOA requests and may not cover all aspects of HMO operations or other healthcare services outside the LOA process.
Geographic Limitations: The portal’s functionality and service coverage may be restricted to specific geographic regions where the HMO operates.

4. Data Disposal

Proprietary patient data will be removed at regular intervals in adherence to data privacy policies. This may involve routine manual deletion processes at specified periods (e.g., monthly, quarterly). All patient requests for data deletion will be honored in compliance with legally provided conditions.

5. Modifications

We reserve the right to modify these Terms and Conditions at any time. Any changes will be effective immediately upon posting on this page.

6. Contact Information

For any questions or concerns regarding these Terms and Conditions, please contact our customer support.

By using the HMO LOA Portal, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.

HMN MD Pre-Arranged Visit Portal
Terms and Conditions

CONSENT

By using the MD Pre-Arranged Visit, I understand and agree to the following:

I am fully aware that in using the MD Pre-Arranged Visit, my personal information will be collected and processed by the relevant Healthway Medical Network facility where I wish to schedule my consultation (the “Facility”), such as my name, contact details, and reason for consultation, for purposes of processing the appointment and contacting me about possible schedule changes. I understand that my information will be treated in accordance with HMN’s Privacy Policy.

I agree to receive updates via email and phone call or message from the Facility. I may also receive updates about their services or events.

SCOPE AND LIMITATION

I understand that this MD Pre-Arranged Visit is designed for my convenience in scheduling my visit, while the list is intended for walk-in patients. However, there are some limitations to keep in mind:

I understand that the availability displayed may not be completely up-to-date. For urgent concerns, it is best to call the Facility directly.

I acknowledge that the HMN will only send an acknowledgment email, and the Facility will only provide updates about my pre-arranged visit. They will not issue any confirmation, as the list is intended for walk-in patients.

I understand that by using the MD Pre-Arranged Visit portal, my name will be pre-listed with my preferred doctor at my preferred facility on my preferred date. This pre-list will serve both as the walk-in patient’s list on the day of my visit and as a notice to my preferred doctor and facility.

I understand that the HMN will do its best to keep the pre-arranged portal running smoothly. However, technical issues may arise that could temporarily limit functionality. The Network cannot be held liable for any inconvenience caused by such technical problems.

DISCLOSURE

I understand that by using this MD Pre-Arranged Visit, some information will be disclosed:

I agree to provide accurate and complete information, including my name, contact details, and the reason for my visit. This information is necessary and may be used to contact me regarding changes or updates. The network assures me that my information will be kept confidential according to HMN’s Privacy Policy.

I agree to receive updates via emails and phone calls or messages from the Facility. The Network may also send updates about services, promos, or events.

ADMINISTRATIVE

I understand that the Facility will only provide updates about my pre-arranged visit and will not issue a confirmation, as the list is intended for walk-in patients.

I also authorize the Facility’s healthcare team to get in touch with me should there be a medical need to do so in the interest of my safety or the safety of others.

Healthway Medical Network ECU Online Appointment Setter Service Terms and Conditions

CONSENT

By using this online appointment setter, I understand and agree to the following:

I hereby consent to engage in ECU services of Healthway Medical Network. They will collect my personal information, such as my name, contact details, and reason for the appointment. This information is needed to schedule and confirm my appointment and may be used to contact me about appointment changes or Healthway Medical Network updates. They will treat my information confidentially in accordance with Healthway Medical Network’s Privacy Policy.

I agree to receive appointment confirmation emails and reminders from Healthway Medical Network. I may also receive updates about their services or events. I can unsubscribe from these communications at any time.

I understand that Healthway Medical Network will use its best efforts to fulfill my appointment as scheduled. However, they reserve the right to reschedule or modify appointments due to unforeseen circumstances. Healthway Medical Network will notify me as soon as possible of any changes.

SCOPE AND LIMITATION

I understand that this ECU online appointment setter is designed for my convenience in scheduling appointments for various ECU services. However, there are some limitations to keep in mind:

I understand that the availability displayed may not be completely up-to-date. There might be a short delay between my booking and the system reflecting the change. For urgent appointments or immediate confirmation, it’s best to call the facility directly.

I understand that this platform may not offer all ECU services. If I’m looking for a specific service not available online, or want a complete list, contacting your preferred facility directly is recommended.

I agree that I can reschedule or cancel appointments through this platform, there may be a minimum notification period required. Please be sure to review the cancellation policy during the booking process for details.

I understand that Healthway Medical Network will do their best to keep the online appointment setter running smoothly. However, technical issues may arise that could temporarily limit functionality. Healthway Medical Network cannot be held liable for any inconvenience caused by such technical problems.

DISCLOSURE

I understand that by using this ECU online appointment setter, some information will be disclosed:

I agree to provide accurate and complete information, including my name, contact details, and the reason for my appointment. This information is necessary to schedule and confirm my appointment, and may be used to contact me regarding changes or updates. Healthway Medical Network assures me my information will be kept confidential according to Healthway Medical Network’s Privacy Policy.

I agree to receive appointment confirmation emails and reminders from Healthway Medical Network. They may also send updates about services or events, but I can unsubscribe from these communications at any time.

DATA PRIVACY

I understand that I have a right to access my medical information and copies of medical records in accordance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012 or RA 10173.

I also understand that the dissemination of any personally identifiable images or information from the ECU interaction to researchers or other entities shall not occur without my written consent.

I understand and agree that I will not record the ECU session nor publish online or otherwise, any recording, without the prior written consent of the Physician being consulted on this platform and Healthway Medical Network.

I understand and agree that Healthway Medical Network may use data from this online appointment setter and ECU appointment to pursue its goal of improving the value and benefits of this service but that any publication of patient data will have personal identifiers removed or anonymized or hidden, and that my data will only be published in aggregate reports which do not contain my personal identifiers unless I provide written consent to do otherwise.

CANCELING AND RESCHEDULING

I understand and agree that my consultation can only be canceled or rescheduled within 3 working days prior to my initial schedule.

In case my doctor cannot attend my scheduled consultation or any administrative challenges arise, I understand that a reschedule may be offered to me within the next forty-eight (48) hours from my scheduled appointment. I also understand and agree that I have the right not to accept the new schedule.

ADMINISTRATIVE

I understand and agree that nonmedical technical personnel may be present to aid in the interactive audio, video or other telecommunications technology transmission.

I understand that there may be delays in the consultation due to the hospital’s skeletal workforce implementation.

I also authorize Healthway Medical Network healthcare team to get in touch with me should there be a medical need to do so in the interest of my safety or the safety of others.