Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Treatment

 You may want to ask your doctor some of the following questions before you decide on your cancer treatment. 

Questions about Cancer Treatment

• What are treatments for my type and stage of cancer?
• Where can I find more information about the types of cancer treatments?
• What are the benefits and risks of each of these treatments?
• What treatment do you recommend? Why do you think it is best for me?
• When will I need to start treatment?
• Will I need to be in the hospital for treatment? If so, for how long?
• What is my chance of recovery with this treatment? 
• How will we know if the treatment is working?
• Would a clinical trial (research study) be right for me?
• How do I find out about studies for my type and stage of cancer?

Questions about Finding a Specialist and Getting a Second Opinion

• Will I need a specialist(s) for my cancer treatment?
• Will you help me find a doctor for a second opinion on the best treatment plan for me? 

Questions about What Happens during Treatment 

• Where will I go for treatment?
• How is the treatment given?
• How long will each treatment session take?
• How many treatment sessions will I have?
• Should a family member or friend come with me to my treatment sessions?
• How will I feel after each treatment? Will I be able to go about my day or should I plan to rest?
• Will I be able to work? Should I think about going part-time?
• Will treatment affect my appetite or make it hard to eat?
• What should I do if a weather or other emergency occurs while I am having treatment?

Questions about Side Effects 

• What are the possible side effects of the treatment?
• What side effects may happen during or between my treatment sessions?
• Are there any side effects that I should call you about right away?
• Are there any lasting side effects of the treatment?
• Will this treatment affect my ability to have children?
• Will treatment affect my appetite or make it hard to eat?
• How can I prevent or treat side effects?

Questions about Medicines and Other Products You Might Be Taking

• Do I need to tell you about the medicines I am taking now?
• Should I tell you about dietary supplements (such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, or fish oil) that I am taking?
• Could any drugs or supplements change the way that cancer treatment works?