Questions to Ask Yourself and
Your Doctor
Be sure to identify your needs before communicating them to your doctor and his or her health care team. Below are questions to consider asking yourself before your next appointment.
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How much information do I want to be told about my diagnosis or health status?
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How do I want my doctors to communicate with me about these issues (for example, “Don’t beat around the bush” or “With tender loving care”)?
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Under what conditions do I need to talk with my doctors (quiet, uninterrupted, with a tape recorder or a family member present to capture information)?
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What is most important when I consider my treatment options (for example, living longer, minimizing side effects, avoiding pain)?
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Is there anything I can do to make communication with my doctors easier?
The following questions are ones to consider asking your doctor:
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Why do you recommend this treatment or procedure?
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How might it help me?
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What are the possible risks?
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What are the side effects? Which ones require immediate medical attention?
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How long does it take? How often do I receive it? How is it given?
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Are there more or less aggressive options available?
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What are the symptoms that usually develop with my type of cancer diagnosis, and how are they treated?
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How will each of these options affect my quality of life? Will I be able to do the things I enjoy? Can I work? Take care of my kids? Go on vacation?
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What lifestyle changes would you recommend I consider during my treatment?
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How and when will the effectiveness of this treatment be evaluated?
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How do you like to make decisions?
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How will you present information to me?
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How can I reach you in an emergency?
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What happens if I choose to receive no treatment?