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 A diagnosis of cancer can be the beginning of a difficult journey; you may feel out of control and overwhelmed. However, understanding and managing your treatment options can assist you in ensuring the best possible outcome. We recommend four steps in optimizing your cancer care:
- Get Informed
- Get Organized
- Discuss the Possibility of Treatment Success
- Determine the Best Treatment Option
Get Informed
There are several resources you can use to gain an understanding of your diagnosis and the stage of your cancer. Your healthcare team, second opinions, patients who have dealt with that type of cancer, the internet, and books all may offer advice and information that are useful to you in this step. But, you should also beware that the amount of information available can be overwhelming. We recommend you discuss your concerns and questions with your doctor.
Get Organized
A system designed to keep all of your information together, including test results, consultation information, and additional instructions, can make you feel more in control of your disease. A folder or binder will allow you to keep all of the information you will gather in one easy-to-find location.
Discuss the Possibility of Treatment Success with your Caregivers
Cancer treatment is typically given to cure your cancer, prolong the duration of your life, or to improve your quality of life by alleviating symptoms caused by your cancer. Understanding the goals, risks and benefits of a specific treatment, and discussing them with your caregivers, will better enable you to determine the best treatment option for your case.
Determine the Best Treatment Option
Treatments vary based on your type and stage of cancer and your overall condition. You and your physician will consider these factors, along with the goals for your cancer treatment, to select your best treatment option.
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