ROBERT MUSCALUS, D.O.: By taking additional time to explore options, to get additional information, patients become empowered and feel more in control of their own healthcare, by being able to ask questions, to do research, to get additional opinions, to start to lay out a strategy and a framework for their future care.
ANNOUNCER: Taking time allows for step two following diagnosis, which is to get the support you need.
CAROLYN M. CLANCY, MD: When receiving a new diagnosis, it's incredibly important to engage members of your family or friends, people who can work with you.
Having another person with you when you make visits, when you get tests done, means that there's someone who's at a little more of an emotional distance who can ask questions that you might have overlooked. It's very helpful to have a partner, an advocate with you throughout this process.
ANNOUNCER: A partner in the process can also take notes, and help review information following a visit with a doctor. And no one should feel isolated or alone, for there are plenty of places to turn for help.
CAROLYN M. CLANCY, MD: People who live alone or don't have immediate family or immediate family who could be helpful or friends or co-workers can often reach out through other community resources.
A really good place to start is the physician's office, because either the physician, nurse, or other office personnel will often know about resources in the community who can be helpful.
ANNOUNCER: Step three after diagnosis is to talk with your doctor and maintain a good, two-way flow of information.
