"I'm calling because the Dr. wants to see you. There is something on your recent scan that she wants to look closer at. It's probably nothing, but we need to make sure."
I knew this particular patient well, so when the oncologist told me she wanted to see him ASAP, I agreed to make the call even though I don't know how to make phone calls like this. No one does. I know that over half the time there truly is nothing to worry about. It's just that a different, more specific test is needed to either verify or rule out suspicions. Medicine gets the big picture first, then narrows down abnormal findings to get a more detailed look. It could be a blood test, a more precise scan, or possibly a biopsy that will give the answer.
Making phone calls like these makes my pulse race with anxiety, but I'm sure it's nothing compared to the panic my words are causing. There is no easy way. I try to be kind and reassuring while staying honest, to answer any questions I can, and to make the appointment just as soon as possible.
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