Questions to Ask the Doctor

If you have a good understanding of your disease and can explain your condition back to your doctor, then you're in good shape. 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 your doctor:

• What is the stage of my cancer?
• What are my treatment options?
• Will my case be discussed in a multi-disciplinary planning conference before any irrevocable treatment decisions are made?
• What are the benefits of each treatment?
• What are the risks and side effects of each treatment?
• Do you have any advice on managing side effects?
• What is my prognosis?
• Will you help me arrange for second opinions if I feel unsure about a next step in my treatment program?
• What can I do to take care of myself during treatment?
• Will treatment affect my daily life, like eating, gardening, walking, or traveling?
• What will my appointment schedule be?