What I’ve learned – and what I want you to know is that the consultation itself is almost always less frightening than the anticipation of it.
Here’s exactly what happens when you come to see me. No surprises.
Before You Arrive: What to Bring
Please bring everything you have. This includes:
All previous scan reports - CT, MRI, PET, Ultrasound
Biopsy reports and pathology results if available
Biopsy reports and pathology results if available
A list of all medications you currently take, including supplements
Your family medical history if you know it - especially any history of cancer
A trusted family member or friend, if possible
Step 1: The Medical History Review (10-15 minutes)
I begin every consultation the same way – by understanding you as a person, not just a diagnosis. I’ll ask about your symptoms, when they started, what you’ve noticed, and how you’ve been feeling overall.
I’ll also ask about your lifestyle, your work, your family history, and any previous surgeries or illnesses. This context matters. Cancer does not happen in isolation.
Step 2: Reviewing Your Reports (10-20 minutes)
This is where I go through your imaging and pathology in detail. I explain what each report shows-in plain language, not medical jargon.
If you have a scan, I’ll show you the images and explain what I see. If you have a biopsy report, I’ll explain what the pathology tells us about the type and behaviour of the cancer.
This is a good time to ask any question you’ve written down. There are no foolish questions in this room.
Step 3: The Clinical Assessment
Depending on your presentation, I may conduct a clinical examination – a physical check relevant to your specific symptoms and suspected cancer site. This is routine and always explained before it happens.
Step 4: The Treatment Discussion
This is often the part patients fear most. But it is also, in my experience, the part that brings the most relief-because uncertainty is often worse than reality.
I will explain your options clearly. Surgery may be one option. It may not be. There may be a need for additional investigations first. I will tell you honestly where you stand, what the possible paths forward are, and what my recommendation is and why.
If surgery is recommended, I explain whether a robotic, laparoscopic, or open approach is most appropriate. If a multidisciplinary approach is needed – involving a medical oncologist or radiation oncologist – I will tell you and help coordinate that
Step 5: Your Questions – All of Them
Please do not leave without asking everything on your list. Common questions patients ask include:
- “Is this curable?”
- “Do I need surgery immediately or do I have time to think?”
- “What happens if I do nothing?”
- “Can I get a second opinion?” (The answer is always yes, and I will support you in doing so.)
- “What is the recovery like?”
- “Will I be able to work/travel/care for my family after this?
Every question deserves an honest, complete answer. That is what you will get.
After the Consultation
You will receive a clear summary of what was discussed and the next steps recommended. This may include additional scans, a biopsy, a second opinion, or scheduling for surgery.
You are never rushed out of my clinic with a prescription and a pamphlet. Cancer is serious. You deserve time, clarity, and honesty.
One Last Thing
Coming for a consultation does not commit you to anything. It gives you information. And information-real, accurate, explained in plain language is the most powerful thing you can have when facing a cancer diagnosis.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Sachin Marda now.
For a valuable second opinion and expert guidance reach out to Dr. Sachin Marda today. His wealth of knowledge and experience ensures that you will receive top-notch advice and recommendations customized specifically to your needs.
