12 tips to guide patients through a cancer diagnosis

Each year, Feb. 4 is World Cancer Day. And although primary care physicians don’t manage cancer, they do treat patients. Guiding patients through a cancer diagnosis is a crucial role for primary care.

As a primary care physician, your guidance at the start of a patient’s cancer journey can provide the confidence, hope and resilience they need to navigate this difficult chapter in their life. By offering thoughtful support and connecting them with the right resources, you make a lasting impact on their journey to recovery.

1. If you are calling to deliver the diagnosis, ensure the patient is not driving and, preferably, is not alone.
2. Ask them to have a pen and paper ready. A cancer diagnosis is shocking, and patients often retain very little of what they hear initially. Writing down key points can help them process the information later.
3. Reassure them that most cancers, even aggressive ones, don’t require immediate treatment. A one- to four-week timeline to complete tests and prepare for treatment is typical. Encourage swift action without panic.
4. The patient will soon face a whirlwind of medical terms, appointments and decisions. Offer to help them understand the choices and translate technical language.
5. Recommend an oncologist who specializes in their cancer type and pathology, if possible, before referring to a surgeon. Oncologists can coordinate a comprehensive plan and involve surgeons if needed.
6. Advise waiting until they meet with a specialist before diving into internet research. Explain that cancer treatments are highly specific to the stage, pathology and individual response. Recommend reputable sources such as Cancer.org
7. Encourage early mental health support through therapists trained in supporting patients with cancer and their families.
8. Advise patients to clearly articulate what they do and don’t want from their community (e.g., no unsolicited health advice or family cancer stories).
9. Avoid statements about treatment outcomes. Uncertainty is difficult, but making unfounded assurances can undermine trust.
10. Avoid suggesting treatment alternatives unless you are current on specific protocols for their cancer. The rapid pace of medical innovation means even well-meaning advice may conflict with the oncologist’s plan, creating confusion and doubt.
11. Assist patients in booking their first oncology appointment before they leave your office. This small act can reduce fear and uncertainty.
12. Providing an in-person information kit ensures patients leave your office with resources in hand. Include the following:
13. A notepad and pen for note-taking
14. A list of referrals for psycho-oncologists, social workers and cancer nurse navigators
15. Contact information for local or national cancer support organizations