Stage 1 · Verify
Collect the genetic report, pathology, imaging reports and images, medication list, family history, insurance card, plan document, and a dated list of questions. Identify what is confirmed, what is suspected, and what still requires expert review.
- Confirm identity and specimen on every report.
- Separate germline results from tumor results.
- Request second pathology or radiology review when a material finding is disputed or unusual.
Stage 2 · Decide
Define the decision and the deadline. Compare surveillance, prevention, and treatment options with the appropriate specialists. Record expected benefit, uncertainty, alternatives, irreversibility, recovery, future revisions, fertility, menopause, sensation, and quality-of-life effects.
- Ovarian and fallopian-tube plan before breast timing is allowed to crowd it out.
- Breast surgeon and plastic surgeon agree on sequence and contingencies.
- Menopause and pain plans exist before the operation.
Stage 3 · Authorize and prepare
Verify surgeon, assistant, facility, anesthesia, pathology, reconstruction, imaging, and postoperative therapy benefits. Save reference numbers and portal messages. Ask the hospital who handles unexpected findings, after-hours complications, records, and billing corrections.
- Written authorization matches the exact procedures and dates.
- Advance directives and surrogate contacts are current.
- Home help, clothing, drains, transport, medications, and return-to-work needs are planned.
Stage 4 · Recover, review, and escalate
Follow discharge instructions, track symptoms and drains, obtain operative and pathology reports, and attend follow-up. Reconcile the final diagnosis with the original plan. If access, billing, or coverage fails, preserve the denial and build a focused appeal before deadlines expire.
- Know urgent red flags and the 24-hour contact.
- Schedule rehabilitation, menopause, sexual-health, pain, and surveillance follow-up.
- Document adverse events and product or device details, including lot or serial numbers when relevant.