Treatment guidelines

While every case of cancer is different, your specialist should recommend treatment that is based on research. This is called evidence-based medicine. Doctors often follow standards called clinical practice guidelines, which outline the best available treatments for particular cancers.

The guidelines may cover:

• tests needed to determine the stage and grade of the cancer
• the most effective treatments at each stage
• recommended time frames (e.g. how long it is reasonable to wait between receiving test results and starting treatment).

All doctors should be familiar with treatment guidelines, regardless of where they work. Some treatment centres use their own guidelines. Specialists will tailor treatment to suit your situation – this treatment should still meet the recommended best practice guidelines.

Ask your doctor what guidelines they are using – if there is not an Australian guideline, they may use international guidelines.

Some patients find it helpful to read the treatment guidelines, and many guidelines are available online:

• Cancer Australia clinical practice guidelines
• Cancer Council Australia Cancer Guidelines
• Optimal cancer care pathways.

→ READ MORE: Taking part in a clinical trial

It’s important to play an active role in your treatment, because it’s your life and body.

Vivien

Podcast: Making Treatment Decisions

Listen to more episodes from our podcast for people affected by cancer