Questions

List of Questions Upon Diagnosis

Will you permit me to audio-tape our consultations?

What type of colon cancer do I have?

Where exactly is the cancer located in the colon?

Are you able to tell me if my cancer has spread beyond my colon?

Are you able to tell me the stage of my cancer?

If not, what are the tests that I will require to determine what stage my cancer is in?

Are there other tests that need to be done before we can decide on treatment?

Are you able to tell me how quickly the cancer is likely to grow?

Will it make a difference if I were to change my diet?

Does my diagnosis mean that my blood relatives are at higher risk for colorectal cancer? Should they talk to their doctors about screening?

What are my treatment options based on my diagnosis?

What treatment option do you recommend? Why?

What is my prognosis based on type and possible stage of colorectal cancer?

What other doctors will I be required to see for the treatment of my disease? Should I see a surgeon? Medical oncologist? Radiation oncologist? Should these doctors be involved in planning my treatment before we begin? Specialists:____________________________________________________

How do I contact the members of my health care team? Telephone Numbers to Call:
_______________________________________________________

Am I a candidate for surgical removal of the colorectal tumour? If so, what type of surgical procedure do you recommend?

If so, should I have surgery by a certain date?

How long can I safely delay surgery while trying to decide upon a course of treatment and physician referrals?

Should I obtain a second medical opinion before beginning cancer treatment? Why or why not?