Your treatment and care

Your doctor will discuss the different treatment options available to you, taking into account your own preferences. You may find it helpful to take a family member or friend with you when your treatment is being discussed. We also encourage you to ask questions about your treatment and care options. It's ok for you to ask your health care professionals the BRAN questions:

• What are the Benefits?
• What are the Risks?
• What are the Alternatives?
• What would happen if I did Nothing?
   

Your healthcare professional should explain to you the benefits of your available options. They should also discuss the option of doing nothing and what effects this could have. You should expect to be given enough information and time to make up your mind. By asking these question you will be able to make an informed choice about the treatment and care that's right for you.

The professionals who make up your multidisciplinary team will depend on your type of cancer. For example, not all cancers can be treated with surgery. The multidisciplinary team may include: 

• medical oncologist - a specialist doctor who treats cancer with drugs, including chemotherapy.
• clinical oncologist - a specialist doctor who treats cancer with radiotherapy and may also prescribe chemotherapy.
• surgeon - your surgeon will have a special interest in your type of cancer.
• haematologist - a specialist doctor who diagnoses and treats blood disorders.
• pathologist - specialist doctor who examines body tissues and organs under the microscope.
• radiologist - a specialist in the use of x-rays and other imaging to diagnose and treat disease, with a special interest in your type of cancer.
• specialist nurse - a nurse who provides information and support.

Other healthcare specialists for example pharmacists, dietitians, social workers or physiotherapists may also be represented on this team and be involved in your care.

The multidisciplinary teams meet regularly to discuss the best treatment options for each patient in their care, taking into account the results of tests and their general health.