Two different treatment plans: what should I ask?

Start with what you know

Write the diagnosis as it was explained and the name of each option. Is the disagreement about the diagnosis or the treatment? Ask the clinician to write down an unfamiliar name.

Ask for a comparison relevant to you

Ask about expected benefits, risks that matter to you, alternatives, and what might happen if you wait. Ask why each option fits your situation and what missing information might change the recommendation.

Explain what matters to you

Your main concern may be bowel control, recurrence, time away from work, or the number of treatment stages. Write down your priority and the question that remains unanswered.

Leave with a clear next step

Record what was agreed, what remains uncertain, and who will arrange follow-up and when. Ask for a different explanation if an answer is unclear.

Try the next step