Guide for New Patients
Facing a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, especially when preparing to meet your oncologist for the first time. This guide by Dr Dionysis Papadatos-Pastos helps you approach your consultation with confidence — understanding your diagnosis, exploring treatment options, and knowing what questions to ask at every stage.
Understanding Your Diagnosis
During your consultation, Dr Papadatos-Pastos will review your medical records and test results to explain:
- The type and stage of your cancer.
- Whether it has spread, and where.
- Which biological or molecular factors influence your condition.
Understanding these details empowers you to make informed decisions and feel more in control.
Exploring Treatment Options
Dr Papadatos-Pastos will outline the therapies most suitable for your condition — chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or clinical-trial options.
Consider asking:
- What is the goal of each treatment?
- What are the likely benefits and side effects?
- Are there alternative or combination approaches?
Every plan is personalised to balance medical effectiveness with quality of life.
Managing and Coordinating Your Care
Cancer care involves collaboration between multiple specialists. Ask:
- Who will be part of my team?
- How will my care be coordinated?
- How often will I need to attend the clinic?
Dr Papadatos-Pastos ensures a unified, multidisciplinary approach so you always know who to contact and what comes next.
Lifestyle and Support
Treatment can affect daily life and wellbeing. Ask about:
- Nutrition or activity recommendations.
- Managing fatigue or side effects.
- Counselling or patient-support groups.
Our team can connect you with trusted professionals for practical and emotional support throughout treatment.
Monitoring Your Progress
Regular monitoring is vital. You might ask:
- How will we know if treatment is working?
- What scans or tests will be used?
- What happens if results change?
You’ll receive a clear, tailored plan to track progress and adapt treatment when needed.
Staying Organised and Informed
Bring a notebook or digital device to record key details, or invite a friend or family member to accompany you. Keeping reports and test results together helps future appointments run smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Your first consultation is a step toward clarity and direction.
By preparing questions and understanding what to expect, you take an active role in your care.
Dr Papadatos-Pastos and his team are dedicated to providing compassionate, expert oncology guidance, ensuring you and your loved ones feel informed and supported from the very beginning of your journey.
Support and Follow-Up Care
Dr Papadatos-Pastos and his team provide ongoing support beyond medical treatment.
Patients receive clear communication, psychological care and access to nutrition, physiotherapy and symptom-management services.
Regular follow-up ensures early detection of recurrence and long-term wellbeing.
Book a Consultation
If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with lung cancer, early consultation with a specialist can make a real difference. Appointments are available at several London clinics.