After Testing: Making Medical Decisions

Tips to help you to make medical decisions

As you explore your medical options, consider the following:

• Know the guidelines. Many genes have expert guidelines for treating cancer or managing risk. These guidelines are based on the most current research. Well-studied genes, such as BRCA1, BRCA2 and the Lynch syndrome genes have decades of research behind them. Some of the less common and less studied genes may have gaps in the guidelines. 
• Know all your medical options. Even when guidelines exist, you may have multiple options. Ask about the benefits, risks, limitations and costs of each one. Do you qualify for a research study? Explore the FORCE website to learn about relevant clinical trials for each topic. Your doctors may not be aware of research conducted outside of their own facility. 
• What is the best timing? Many treatment decisions are time-sensitive and may require immediate action. Risk-management decisions may have more flexible timing. For example, you may choose screening while you are deciding on risk-reducing surgery. 
• Who are the most knowledgeable experts for this situation? Not all healthcare professionals are equally knowledgeable or experienced on all cancer-related topics. Does your current healthcare team have the right expertise? Ask how many patients with your situation your doctors have treated. Try to get multiple opinions. If your circumstances are rare, seek out referrals to top experts from friends, peers, patient groups or other healthcare professionals.
• Talk to your peers. Speaking with others who have faced similar circumstances and decisions can be helpful. FORCE and our partners offer many ways to receive peer support. Get input from friends and relatives who know you, your preferences and your priorities.
• Check in on your feelings. Are you feeling emotional distress? If medical decisions are causing anxiety, ask for a referral to a social worker, therapist or other healthcare professional.