Questions to Ask the Doctor
One of your biggest allies in battling cancer is your oncologist. Questions are your primary resource to gain a better understanding of your disease and enhance your quality of care. Well-thought-out questions can help you get the most out of your appointments and can make all the difference. Here are some questions you may want to ask:
- Where is the cancer located in the eye?
- How big is the tumor? Has it spread beyond the eye?
- What is the stage of my disease? What is my prognosis?
- What are my treatment options?
- What are the benefits of each treatment?
- What are the risks and side effects of each treatment?
- How will my vision be affected by the tumor and its treatment?
- Do you have any advice on managing side effects? What can I do to take care of myself during treatment?
- Will my case be discussed in a multi-disciplinary planning conference before any irrevocable treatment decisions are made?
- How do you feel about clinical trials? Would you recommend that I participate in one?
- What should I tell other people (kids, parents, siblings, friends, etc.) about my cancer when they ask?
- Will you help me arrange for second opinions if I feel unsure about a next step in my treatment program?
- Am I at high risk for a recurrence? What will my follow-up appointment schedule be like?
