Talking with your doctor about colon or rectal cancer

Have the conversation you want.

Talking to doctors and nurses can be intimidating but it’s a vital part of treatment for colon or rectal cancer. Here are some ideas for getting to know your healthcare team better, and for having the dialogue you want with them.

Bring a friend: This can be a family member, caregiver, or anyone who can help take notes and generally lend an extra hand.

List all your questions and concerns, and ask the most important ones first: That way, even if you forget something here and there, you’ll be sure to keep on top of what matters most.

Talk about any new symptoms or side effects you may be experiencing: Your healthcare team may be able to help, and that new information may help them plan the best treatment or side effect management for you.

Keep important health information with you: This includes insurance information and the names and phone numbers of the other members of your team.

Know who’s who on your healthcare team.

There are many people on every healthcare team and each one has a specific role. Here’s a brief explanation of each:

Physician: A general practitioner of medicine.

Surgeon: A physician who treats disease by operating.

Surgical oncologist: A surgeon who operates to remove cancer.

Liver or hepatobiliary surgeon: A surgeon who performs a liver resection.

Gastroenterologist: A doctor who treats diseases of the digestive system.

Medical oncologist: A doctor who specializes in treating cancer by using drug therapies such as chemotherapy.

Radiation oncologist: A doctor who specializes in treating cancer by using radiation therapy, high-energy X-rays, that kill cancer cells.

Oncology nurse: A nurse who specializes in educating and treating patients with cancer.

Download a list of questions for your doctor

Get suggestions for talking with family and friends