Help the doctor to achieve the correct diagnosis
Some people are nervous or diffident when talking with a member of the medical profession. (Groopman suggests that this may be because we are brought up to believe that doctors are right – a belief to which many doctors themselves subscribe!). It is really important to describe all your symptoms and fears. Remember that, in general, outcomes following a diagnosis of cancer are much better if the disease is picked up early.
- Describe your symptoms. It is often the case that patients do not describe their symptoms well. It can be a good idea to write these down in advance to help you discuss them with the GP or hospital doctor. It can be helpful to get someone you live with, or who knows you well, to check-over this list and come with you to the doctor to speak about anything that you miss. The doctor will be particularly interested in things like: weight loss, tiredness, any pain or swelling, bleeding, discharges and coughing. The doctor will ask you about your previous medical and social (smoking and exposure to things linked with cancer) history and your family medical history.
The points below have been adapted from Groopman (2007):
- Express your deepest fears. If you are worried about cancer, say so. As Groopman writes: 'Sometimes what you are feeling is related to what you are fearing, but the fear is so intense you are reluctant to express it, or because you think you might jinx yourself.' The doctor needs to hear that. If you think your symptoms may relate to a less common cancer he or she can explain why your symptom is not a cancer signal or refer you for hospital tests.
- Ask the doctor constructive questions
- What else could it be? This is a key safeguard against against errors in thinking, and encourages the doctor to re- examine the initial diagnosis.
- Is there anything that doesn't fit? This question is to overcome what is known as confirmation bias. If a doctor draws selectively on the data that confirms a preconceived idea he or she might have discounted information that contradicted the initial theory. So by asking whether there is anything that doesn't fit, or is contradictory, it causes the doctor to pause and allow the mind to roam more broadly.
- Do I have more than one problem? In medical school, doctors are often taught an ancient logic (called Ockham's Razor) which dictates that: all things being equal, the simplest single solution tends to be the best one. This is not always the case and there might be more than one thing going on. This question will prompt your doctor to consider this.
- Don't be afraid to make return visits, ask new questions and be persistent. If your symptoms continue or the treatment you have been given is not working, the first thing you should do is repeat your story, even if you are not asked to. Sometimes, the doctor will hear something they didn't hear the first time round; sometimes you might say something you had omitted.
The Doctor - Patient relationship
Both doctor and patient should feel comfortable exchanging information (e.g. about symptoms and treatment side effects) and working together to make treatment decisions. This applies to your GP and hospital doctor.
You need to take a proactive role in your own healthcare and your relationship with your doctors.
Every doctor-patient relationship evolves and requires time and effort for both parties. There are countless reasons why tensions could arise in a doctor-patient relationship. You might feel that your doctor isn't listening to your concerns, won't answer your questions or doesn't take your fears seriously.
If it is the case, don't be afraid to tell your doctor that you feel unable to address certain issues with him or her; that you don't understand their medical language; or that you are not getting enough time to discuss your problems. For those who are uncomfortable approaching the doctor directly with a problem, ask a nurse or relative to talk to the doctor on your behalf. (Whilst some relationships may not be easy, ask yourself whether the doctor's expertise outweighs a disappointing manner?).
Most doctors want to do the right thing, and should respond well but if you continually feel that you are not getting what you need, consider asking for a new doctor.
Sources: About.com and the American Cancer Society
Message board
We do not offer medical advice. We offer information & support which is intended to help patients, their carers, families and friends.
If you have any medical queries you should direct them at a qualified medical practitioner.
Meeting Space
Join others affected by
CUP to share information
& gain support in a moderated forum
Events
Kate and Rebecca’s half marathon run raises £2,000 through JustGiving
