Elspeth Atkinson: ‘Uncertainty is frequently the most difficult factor to deal with’

BEING diagnosed with cancer is usually a huge shock. Even if doctors have prepared someone for the possibility, it can still leave them reeling when it’s confirmed.

People feel shocked, numb, confused, sad, and frightened and this means they may struggle to take in anything else or ask questions about what they should expect or treatment decisions they have.

While survival rates for cancer are improving, treatment options given to patients are becoming more complex so it’s increasingly important that patients are able to engage with clinicians about their treatment options. Not having all the facts can leave people feeling uncertain about what is going to happen next.

Macmillan Cancer Support is committed to promoting shared decision making, which is why we funded the initial pilot study project at the Western General Hospital. We often advise cancer patients to have a relative or friend with them to listen and take notes during these consultations.

However, having a recording of this consultation to take home and listen to goes that one step further in promoting this shared decision making between the patient and their doctor.

• Elspeth Atkinson is director of Macmillan Cancer Support in Scotland.