Abstract
Women enter an increasingly complex medical system when they receive the diagnosis of breast cancer. Subsequently, they are confronted with numerous complicated, confusing, and less than certain decision-making episodes. Research was undertaken to follow and observe in vivo medical encounters between women and their oncologic physicians throughout the breast cancer diagnostic and treatment process. Empirical data was collected using qualitative techniques to deepen understanding of the decision-making process in the oncology setting. Physicians and patients alike make assumptions about each other that can hinder the development of a trusting and caring attitude that enables a more efficient delivery of healthcare. Patients offer recommendations for care to their physicians. In addition, ethical concerns regarding how medical options are presented to patients emerged in this study.