Questions To Ask Your Consultant
- What type of cancer do I have? How was the diagnosis established? Are there any other diagnostic tests that could provide useful information?
- What is the extent of spread (stage) of the cancer? To what extent does the stage of the cancer influence the treatment options?
- Should I get a second opinion about either the diagnosis or the treatment plan? Can you recommend someone who could provide a second opinion?
- What are the treatment options? How do you decide among the different options? Are there investigational treatments or clinical trials available for this type of cancer?
- How much is known about the type of cancer that I have? How common is this cancer and the type of treatment I am to receive? Would I be better off being treated in a more specialized center?
- What is your experience in treating this type of cancer? What have been the results of this treatment?
- How much time should I take to make a decision about treatment?
- What is the goal of treatment (for example, to completely eradicate the tumor, to reduce the size of the tumor, to alleviate symptoms)?
- How often must I receive treatment? How will I feel after treatment? If there will be side effects of treatment, are there any medications that can help prevent or lessen the severity of these? How soon can I return to normal activities after treatment?
- Does the treatment require hospitalization? Can family members be present with me during treatment? Will I be able to drive afterward? Will it be necessary for someone to stay with me?
- Who will coordinate my treatment plan if different facilities or hospital departments are involved? How many different doctors will be involved in my treatment? Whom should I contact with questions about appointments, billing, etc.?
- Is the proposed treatment covered by my insurance plan? Will I be required to make any payments up-front?
- How will you decide whether the treatment is effective? How long will it take to see any results? What kind of follow-up visits will be necessary, and how frequent should these be?
- Can you recommend any resources that I can read to learn more about the cancer or its treatment?
- Are there patient support groups or support services available?
- Should I continue to take my prescription medications during treatment? Are there any dietary restrictions during treatment? Are lifestyle modifications necessary or recommended?
- Are there any specific signs or symptoms I should watch for following treatment?
- How can I best contact you if I have a question? What should I do in case of an emergency medical situation?
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