THE dreaded C-word: It’s the diagnosis no one wants to hear. Actor Patrick Swayze is the latest public figure fighting cancer, and he’s just one of more than 1.4 million people who will be diagnosed with some form of the disease this year. For patients and their families, that initial reaction of shock and fear is only the beginning.

“Despite my knowledge of the health-care system, it was basically a crisis situation,” says Robin Frank, a former hospital administrator whose mother was diagnosed with cancer.

“Many of the doctors left much to be desired. I quickly found out that people with cancer must be their own advocates.”

Besides coping with the diagnosis itself, patients must also navigate the health-care system, says Ann Wax, a registered oncology nurse and patient advocate. But patients can take steps to make sure their needs are met. It starts with choosing the right doctor.

Patients “should trust their inner feelings about their physician,” says Wax. “Are they able to ask questions? Does he or she take the time to answer [them] and not appear rushed?” Many people are reluctant to question their health-care team, but this can lead to poor care.

“If a doctor is not meeting their needs, they should find a new one.”

Wax says it’s a good idea for cancer patients to bring a family member or friend to appointments. This trusted individual can become an advocate.

And patients should never go to the first appointment alone.

“It’s the biggest word of advice I can give,” says Dr. David Myssiorek, a professor of otolaryngology in the division of head and neck oncology at New York University Medical Center. “When patients hear a diagnosis of cancer, they shut down.”

They shouldn’t be afraid to seek a second or even a third opinion. But after a patient decides on their course of treatment, they should try not to have second thoughts.

“They must have trust in their physicians and care plan,” says Wax, “and not allow family members or other cancer survivors to second-guess their decision.”

Many nonprofit groups offer support services, such as Cancer Care (cancercare.org.) The National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship is providing a free audio program at cancersurvivaltoolbox.org. Dr. Rock is the director of the Non-surgical Foot and Ankle Service at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. Reach him at drrock@nypost.com.