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Just Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer: What to Expect and How to Take Your First Steps
You Are Not Alone
We know a colorectal cancer diagnosis is scary. Your head may be swirling with questions: How long do I have to live? What do I tell my family? Is this beatable? These feelings of shock, fear, and uncertainty are normal.
At Fight Colorectal Cancer (Fight CRC), we are here to walk alongside you. Our community includes survivors, caregivers, loved ones, and medical professionals who have been where you are now. This page will help you understand what usually happens after diagnosis, what your rights are as a patient, and where to find trusted support.
What Happens After a Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis?
Every patient’s journey is unique, but most follow a general timeline during the first weeks and months. Understanding these steps can help you feel more in control and ensure you are receiving the right care at the right time.
Weeks 1–2
- Additional imaging, bloodwork, or biopsy to determine your stage.
- Biomarker testing on your tumor and/or blood. These results will guide treatment decisions.
- Meet with your oncology team and begin creating a care plan. Options may include surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation, and clinical trials.
- Collect and organize all your medical records for your oncology team.
Weeks 3–4
- Referral to genetic counseling (to check for inherited syndromes) or a palliative specialist for supportive care.
- If you are of childbearing age, request a fertility consultation before treatment starts.
- If your treatment involves systemic drug therapy, a port may be surgically placed.
- If radiation is recommended, you will go through a simulation session for precise treatment planning.
Most patients begin treatment within the first month after diagnosis.
Months 2–6: Active Treatment
- Begin chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or surgery (depending on your stage and biomarker results).
- Monitor for side effects; your care team may adjust your treatment plan as needed.
- Repeat imaging and tests every 2–3 months to measure how well treatment is working.
Next steps depend on your test results, treatment response, and overall health.
Your Rights as a Patient
A cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember: you have rights as a patient. These protect you and ensure you receive respectful, safe, and effective care.
Access and Non-Discrimination
You have the right to receive care without discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex/gender, age, disability, or religion.
Language and Accessibility
You have the right to receive information in a way you understand, with interpreter services or disability accommodations as needed.
Emergency Care
You are entitled to a medical screening and stabilizing treatment in an ER — regardless of ability to pay.
Informed Decision-Making
- Get clear explanations of your diagnosis and treatment options.
- Understand the risks, benefits, and alternatives.
- Give (or withdraw) consent at any time.
- Seek a second opinion before starting treatment.
Participation and Advance Directives
- Be an active participant in your care planning.
- Appoint a healthcare proxy.
- Have advance directives respected within the law.
- Access appropriate pain management and palliative care.
Privacy and Confidentiality
- Your health information is protected under HIPAA.
- You have the right to see who has accessed your records and request confidential communications.
Medical Records Access
- Review and obtain copies of your medical records.
- Request corrections if needed.
Safety and Respect
- Be treated with dignity and respect for your cultural and spiritual needs.
- Receive care in a safe setting, free from harassment or abuse.
Costs, Billing, and Insurance Protections
- Receive a clear, itemized bill and explanation of charges.
- Ask about financial assistance, charity care, or payment plans.
- Protection under the No Surprises Act from most surprise out-of-network medical bills.
Continuity of Care and Discharge Planning
- Safe discharge planning with clear instructions for medications and follow-up care.
Complaints and Grievances
- File complaints with your hospital, state health department, or accrediting organizations without fear of retaliation.
Note: Rights may vary by state. Ask your healthcare provider for a copy of your patient rights.
Common Questions After Diagnosis
How soon does colorectal cancer treatment start?
Most patients begin treatment within the first month, after staging and biomarker testing are complete.
Should I ask for biomarker and genetic testing?
Yes. Biomarker and genetic testing can identify the best treatment options and may open eligibility for clinical trials.
What if I cannot afford treatment?
You have the right to ask about financial assistance, insurance appeals, and nonprofit programs that help cover costs. Hospitals with nonprofit status must provide charity care.
Is colorectal cancer beatable?
Yes. When detected early, colorectal cancer is one of the most treatable cancers. Even at later stages, treatments are improving rapidly thanks to biomarker-driven therapies and immunotherapy.
Coping After a Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis
Eden Stotsky-Himelfarb, BSN, RN from Johns Hopkins Medicine discusses how to manage after a colorectal cancer diagnosis. In this session, she will cover understanding diagnoses, shared decision making, managing mental health, talking to family and colleagues, and more.