How to talk to the experts

‘We need to ensure that all patients are given the information and support they need to be fully involved in making decisions with their doctors about what’s right for them,’ says Baroness Delyth Morgan, chief executive at Breast Cancer Now.

◆ Don’t be afraid to ask questions or challenge treatment decisions. Your doctor will only know you’re not happy with something if you say so.

◆ Take a relative or friend to consultations – they will remember what you forget and offer a different perspective on what was said.

◆ Prepare the questions you want to ask, write them down and then take notes or record the consultation.

◆ Doctors understand that people can only absorb a limited amount of information at one time so may be wary of overloading you but if you don’t understand or you need more information, say so.

◆ Make sure your mobile is fully charged in case you need to phone people after appointments.

◆ Ask who you can phone if you have any other questions. ‘Your breast-care nurse is a valuable resource, as she can provide advice and help between appointments as well as at hospital visits,’ says Sally Greenbrook.

◆ The Macmillan organiser is a free tool (also available as an app) that can help you track things, such as your symptoms, appointments and medication. Visit be.macmillan.org.uk