7 Important Questions to Ask Your Oncologist

Finding out that you have cancer can be scary. When emotions run high, it’s hard to remember everything that gets said during major appointments and meetings.

13 Shares

Finding out that you have cancer can be scary and stressful. When emotions run high, it can be hard to remember everything that gets said during major appointments and meetings. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to relieve some of the pressure while you visit with your oncologist. One thing we recommend is bringing a notebook, smart phone or laptop with you so that you can write down your questions before your appointment and write down the answers in real-time. You can even use a recording device on your cell phone and record the entire meeting. Just be sure to get your doctor’s consent beforehand.

We compiled a list of 7 basic questions to ask your oncologist when discussing possible treatments. This list should serve as a way to start a conversation with your oncologist, but is by no means an exhaustive list of the only questions you should ask. Once the ice is broken, you’ll find it easier to ask more specific questions for your particular condition.

1. What are my treatment options? Are these my only options?

As different treatments have their own risks and benefits, it is necessary to fully explore and understand what each treatment will entail. Knowing about your different treatment options can also help ensure that you feel confident in the one you choose.

2. Why are you recommending this therapy?

When talking with your oncologist, it is very important to understand why they suggest a certain therapy. This will help you gain an understanding of how the treatment will work and can clarify any confusion about why other treatment options are not advised.

3. What are your goals for this treatment?

By understanding the goals that the doctor has for your treatment, you can begin to gain a realistic perspective on what you should expect from this process. This question may help clarify whether this treatment is primary, adjuvant, or palliative.

  • Primary treatment is used to get rid of all the cancer cells in your body.
  • Adjuvant therapy is intended to destroy any remaining cancer cells in your body after primary treatment has been completed.
  • Palliative care is meant to reduce the symptoms of cancer or other treatments, but is not intended to get rid of the cancer completely.

4. How will I feel during the treatment?

When talking about your treatment, it is important to take note of how you will feel physically, mentally, and emotionally during therapy as well as following its completion. This will allow you to make necessary preparations and set your expectations accordingly. This may also help your support network to better care for you. It will also allow appropriate arrangements as it relates to work.

Illustration - Vector graphics

5. What will I need to manage side effects?

By knowing what you might experience and what you might need, you can begin to prepare for what lies ahead. It is also advantageous to know if additional healthcare professionals such as speech and swallowing therapists, physical therapists and nutritional experts are advisable and available. This can help minimize unnecessary stress during your treatment.

6. What are the risks associated with the recommended treatment?

Understanding the risks associated with your treatment will help you make the best possible decision for yourself. Asking this question can give you the perspective you need so that you can decide which direction you would like to take with your treatment.

7. What are the chances of successful treatment?

Developing an understanding of your likely outcomes can also help you make the best treatment decision for yourself and your loved ones. Quality of life and the potential to prolong life are both very important considerations to make.

Hey, Wait!
Subscribe to our newsletter and never miss our latest news and promotions.
newsletter
Overlay Image
Hey, Wait!
Subscribe to our newsletter and never miss our latest news and promotions.
newsletter
Overlay Image