Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer: What Comes Next?
If you were recently diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer, it’s normal to be concerned about the next steps. To help you understand your diagnosis and what to expect at your first oncology appointment, the Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY team has prepared this guide.
Your First Step After a Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis:
Consulting with the Oncology Team
Most patients receive a diagnosis of colorectal cancer after something suspicious is found during a colonoscopy. A biopsy is performed on the cells removed during the procedure. If the biopsy results are positive for cancer, the next step is to meet with an oncologist.
A medical oncologist will typically serve as the team lead, helping you understand your diagnosis and explaining the details of the recommended treatment plan, including when each treatment will be given. You may also meet with a colorectal cancer surgeon if the cancerous polyp or tumor was not completely removed during a previous procedure. If radiation therapy is part of your plan, you’ll also meet with the radiation oncologist for a consultation and treatment planning.
At Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY (HOA), you will have access to oncologists specializing in colorectal cancer at all our locations in the Central New York region. Our multidisciplinary team collaborates closely to develop a treatment plan tailored to the tumor's location and stage, as well as your personal preferences.
What is the Extent of My Colorectal Cancer?
If a biopsy confirms the presence of colon or rectal cancer, an oncologist will need to determine its stage, or extent, to recommend the most effective treatment plan. The staging process involves various tests and imaging techniques to assess whether the cancer has spread.
Colorectal cancer stages are typically represented as a number ranging from 0 to IV, with stage 0 indicating contained, non-invasive cancers and stage IV indicating cancers that have metastasized. The results from the biopsy and imaging studies will allow your oncologist to determine the extent of your colorectal cancer.
Which Colorectal Cancer Treatments Will I Receive?
Several factors influence the recommended treatments for colon or rectal cancer, including the specific type of cancer and its location and stage. While timely treatment is crucial, it's also important to understand the recommended cancer treatment plan and get answers to your questions. Treatment can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and participation in clinical trials. Our colorectal cancer team is committed to helping patients thoroughly understand their treatment options.
HOA’s community-based cancer centers include comfortable infusion suites where systemic treatments are given by certified oncology nurses. Radiation therapy is also administered at our cancer centers, conveniently located in the Syracuse area.
Should You Consider a Clinical Trial for Colorectal Cancer?
Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY is actively involved in research studies with the goal of finding more effective ways to treat cancer. Our patients have access to the latest colon and rectal cancer clinical trials. If you are eligible, your oncologist will discuss the possibility of participating in a clinical trial with you.
Learn about clinical trials available at Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY.
Should I Get a Second Opinion Before Starting Treatment?
At HOA, we want each patient to feel confident about their diagnosis and treatment plan for colorectal cancer. Because of this, we encourage you to get a second opinion before starting any treatment if desired. If you were diagnosed elsewhere, our oncologists can provide a second opinion on your cancer diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan. Most insurance plans cover second opinions. However, it's best to contact your health benefits provider directly to verify coverage before scheduling an appointment.
Preparing for the First Oncology Appointment
The first oncology appointment can be overwhelming due to the amount of information it involves. We recommend bringing a friend or family member to help by listening and taking notes.
To help manage the information you receive, we recommend keeping notes in a notebook and organizing your paperwork in a folder. Keeping well-organized records can help you maintain control over your health details. If a digital option works better for you, commit to using it regularly.
Don’t wait until your first oncology appointment to start taking notes. Instead, jot down any questions you or your family members may have, as well as a list of the medications or supplements you take, important dates, and how you are feeling. This information is essential for your colorectal cancer care team.
Learn about what to expect at your first oncology visit with HOA.
Questions to Ask Your Colorectal Cancer Specialist
Here is a list of common questions you may want to ask during your first appointment with the oncologist:
- Do I have colon or rectal cancer, and what is the recommended treatment plan?
- Will I need to undergo additional tests?
- Will you perform biomarker testing on the tumor?
- Does my treatment plan include surgery?
- If I need surgery, will I require a colostomy bag? If so, will it be temporary or permanent?
- What side effects can I expect from treatment and the cancer itself?
- Will I need to see other medical specialists during my treatment?
- Are there any activities I should avoid? Are there activities that should be included in my routine?
- What is best to eat and drink while undergoing colorectal cancer treatment?
- Is participating in a clinical trial an option for me?
- Who should I ask about managing treatment side effects?
- Do you have access to supportive care, such as support groups or counseling?
Choosing Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY for Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY is a physician-owned organization dedicated to delivering compassionate care for colorectal cancer, using state-of-the-art technology and the most advanced cancer treatments. We bring together the right cancer experts to discuss and plan the most effective treatment for each patient. Our comprehensive care team includes a medical oncologist, a radiation oncologist, an oncology nurse, and several other specialists who provide supportive care. We will work closely with the surgeon if surgery is part of the treatment plan.
HOA provides cancer treatment in a comfortable, compassionate, and supportive environment to 70% of adult cancer patients in the region. From diagnosis to treatment, we provide compassionate care every step of the way to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome. Our multidisciplinary approach also extends to a survivorship program that provides ongoing support after treatment is complete.
If you or a loved one was diagnosed with colorectal cancer, request an appointment for a consultation with an oncologist in Central New York.
Insurance Coverage
Many patients are understandably concerned about the cost of colorectal cancer treatment. While insurance policies vary, a portion of your treatment should typically be covered.We accept many types of insurance, and we also have financial counselors available to work through individual financial situations.
Please contact HOA to verify that our cancer care providers participate in your health plan. You can also learn more by visiting our Billing Insurance Information page.
Find a Colorectal Cancer Specialist in Central New York
The team at Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY makes it possible to receive the most advanced cancer treatment close to home. Our cancer centers are located in East Syracuse, Auburn, and Camillus, NY. We offer care for patients throughout Central New York, in Onondaga County, Cayuga County, Cortland County, Herkimer County, Jefferson County, including Watertown; Madison County, including Oneida; Oneida County, including Utica and Verona; and throughout Oswego County, including Oswego and Fulton.
