Cancer Questions to Ask Your Doctor

How do I choose an Oncologist?

Is the oncologist board certified?
How much experience does he or she have in treating that specific type of cancer?
Do you feel comfortable talking with this doctor? Does he or she listen well?
Is the staff compassionate? Is the environment a good one or do you feel rushed?
What hospital(s) does this oncologist see patients in?
What are the office hours?
What if you have an emergency? Can you call?
Can this doctor be contacted after hours?

What is my diagnosis?
What is my prognosis?
Has my cancer spread?
What stage is cancer?
How is treatment likely to help in my case?
What are all my treatment options?
Which treatment do you recommend and why?
What is the goal of the treatment you recommend?
What are the long term and short term side effects of treatment, and how can I manage them?
How would treatment affect my daily life?
How much experience do you have with this type of treatment?
How experienced is the hospital in treating people with this cancer?
Should I be referred to a cancer center for treatment?
Should I think about taking part in a clinical trial? Am I eligible for clinical trials?
Based on what you've learned about my cancer, what is my prognosis?
What should I do to be ready for treatment?
Will my fertility or ability to have children be affected?
How can I keep myself as healthy as possible during treatment?
Where can I find help with financial concerns?
Where can I find help with lodging or transportation?
What will my follow-up care plan include?
When can I call myself a survivor?

What type of surgery am I going to have? Why is it recommended?
How long will I be in the hospital?
What care or help will I need once I go home from the hospital?
How will I feel after the surgery? How long will it be before I can resume my normal activities?
Are there some common side effects after this type of surgery?
Where will the surgical scar be? Will it fade over time?
What risks are associated with this surgery?
What treatments will I need after the surgery?
When will I find out the results of the surgery?
How long before I have a follow-up appointment?
Where can I find a cancer support group?