For patients & families

Patient Guides

Practical information to help you organise your records, prepare your questions and take part in a consultation.

Guides by cancer type

01

Head & Neck Oncology

Oral cavity, tongue, salivary gland and laryngeal cancers.

02

Gastrointestinal & colorectal cancers

Colon, rectum, stomach and other digestive system cancers.

03

Breast cancer

Understanding breast surgery and the wider treatment plan.

04

Gynaecologic cancers

Ovarian, uterine and cervical cancer treatment pathways.

05

Peritoneal cancers & HIPEC

Cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC in carefully selected settings.

06

Thoracic oncology

Lung and mediastinal tumours, and assessment for surgery.

07

Thyroid Oncology

Evaluation, surgery, lymph-node assessment and follow-up for thyroid cancer.

Preparing for a consultation · Preparing for a second opinion

Before your appointment

Confirm the consultation location and timing before travelling. If possible, bring a family member or someone you trust to help with notes and questions.

  • Biopsy and pathology reports; ask whether slides or blocks are needed.
  • Scan reports and the original images on disc or through an accessible link.
  • Previous operation notes, discharge summaries and treatment records.
  • A list of medicines, allergies and other health conditions.
  • A short timeline of symptoms and previous treatment.

Questions worth bringing

  • What does the diagnosis mean, and are more tests needed?
  • What is the aim of the proposed treatment?
  • What alternatives are available, including non-surgical options?
  • What are the main risks and likely effects on daily life?
  • How will recovery and follow-up be organised?
  • Who should I contact if I develop a problem?

Common questions

Does a consultation always lead to surgery?

No. Treatment may involve surgery, medicines, radiotherapy or a combination. The recommendation depends on the diagnosis, extent of disease and individual circumstances.

Can I seek a second opinion?

You can discuss a second opinion with your treating doctor. Bring the original records so the next team can understand the diagnosis and recommendations already made. Read about preparing for a second opinion.

Should I send my reports through WhatsApp?

Use the contact number first to confirm the appropriate way to share records. Avoid sending sensitive medical information before confirming the recipient and sharing arrangements.

Reliable reading

Further reading: Types of cancer treatment — National Cancer Institute.

Further reading: Diagnosis and staging — National Cancer Institute.

For an urgent or rapidly worsening problem, seek prompt medical assessment. An appointment message is not an emergency service.