Receiving a treatment plan after a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. To help you feel more in control, it is important to understand that your care is coordinated through a multidisciplinary approach. This means your surgical oncologist works closely with medical oncologists (chemotherapy/immunotherapy), radiation oncologists, and pathologists.
Your treatment plan is a customized roadmap built specifically for you, considering the cancer’s stage, location, your overall health, and your personal goals. The plan typically involves several phases:
- Diagnosis & Staging: Confirming the type and extent of the cancer.
- Primary Treatment: Often surgery, followed by chemotherapy or radiation (or both).
- Recovery & Surveillance: Regular follow-up appointments and scans to monitor your long-term health.
Ask questions, seek a second opinion for confirmation, and trust your specialized team. Understanding the journey empowers you to be an active, confident partner in your recovery.