Good health care requires a good relationship between the patient and the doctor. As with all relationships, effective communication is essential to assure your needs are met.

Cancer treatment usually requires the services of more than one doctor and sometimes involves a number of other health specialists. Information can come from several sources. However, it's a good idea to choose one doctor as the primary source of information - the person you can turn to with any concern.

Ask How much do I want to know? Only an overview might be necessary. Some people find it threatening to know all the details of what's happening to their bodies and what different treatments are designed to do. They just want to be told what pill to take or what their treatment will be and when it will be completed. They prefer to have most decisions rest with the doctor.

Some patients want a simple yet thorough explanation. They may feel better when they know all the facts about what is happening to them. They need to make sure the doctor knows how important it is for them to hear specific details and background information.

How Information is Shared
We each have our own style of communication and the skills to carry it off. That's why the perfect doctor for one person may be in inappropriate match for another.

Some women want their doctor to be business-like. Some prefer doctors who are very direct and concise. They don't want a personal relationship - just a sharing of necessary facts.

Other women may prefer the more friendly communication style of a doctor who will be warmly sympathetic - especially when an illness requires long-term treatment.

Understanding Your Doctor
Remember, we may listen selectively when we are anxious or fearful - particularly in the early stages of an illness. Even if the doctor is completely frank, it may be difficult to hear what is being said. So, try to understand what the doctor says - take notes, or ask if the discussions can be taped for later review. It also might be helpful to have a friend there to listen, too.

Although some doctors vary their styles, others have firm views on their dealing with patients. Some doctors try to share everything with patients but use complex technical language. Ask for an explanation when something isn't understood.

Try to express as clearly as possible the changes in bodily functions - from sleep and bowel habits to changes in sensation anywhere, from headaches to foot fatigue. Talk over concerns and observations with the doctor, as well as any changes in lifestyle.

Here are some basic questions which might be helpful:

What type of cancer do I have?
What are you prescribing and why?
Are there alternative methods of treatment?
What are the benefits and risks of all treatment options?
What should I expect during treatment?
Are there side effects?
Are there medications I can take to help me with the side effects?
How can you tell if the treatments are working?
Will I be able to continue to work?
How will the disease affect my normal daily activities?

Remember that the circle of communication exchange is continuous. Write the physicians instructions down and make sure they are understood before leaving the office, so the recommended regimen can be followed properly.
If you continue to feel uncomfortable in the relationship with your physician, it is important to discuss this with the doctor. It could be a positive turning point. If not, it may be time to find a new doctor. All patients have the right to seek the kind of relationship that provides comfort and confidence in their treatment.