Questions to Ask about Treatment

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

Cancer Treatment

• What are the ways to treat my type and stage of cancer?
• 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?

Finding a Specialist and Getting a Second Opinion

• Will I need a specialist or specialists for my cancer treatment?
• Will you help me find a doctor to give me another opinion on the best treatment plan for me?

Surgery

• Is surgery an option for me? If so, what kind of surgery do you suggest?
• How long will I stay in the hospital?
• If I have pain, how will it be controlled?

Other Types of 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?

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 effects of the treatment?
• Will this treatment affect my ability to have children?
• How can I prevent or treat side effects?

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?