Getting Answers: Questions to ask your doctor
Studies show that people who are fully informed about their disease and treatment options usually tend to fare better and experience fewer side effects than those who simply follow doctor’s orders. Being informed gives you some control over your disease and encourages a positive outlook.
Your doctor should take the time to answer your questions and explain various treatment options. Here are some tips to help communicate with your doctor.
Tell your doctor if you are having trouble understanding an explanation, description or unfamiliar medical words.
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Consider writing your questions down, so you remember to ask them at your appointment.
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Bring a notebook to write down the answers so you can review them later.
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Be patient. It may take a few meetings before you and your doctor understand each other.
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As your doctor where you can find printed material about your condition.
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If you are interested in seeking a second opinion, let your doctor know. Most doctors fully understand the value of a second opinion and are not offended.
In your discussions with your doctor consider the following:
Find out your type of cancer and the risk factors for this disease. Ask if it is genetic and if members of your family are at risk.
Ask the common symptoms for the type of cancer. Find out how to avoid symptoms or reduce the impact that they may have on your daily activities.
Ask what diagnostic tests or procedures are necessary. Find out how to prepare for the tests and if they will be uncomfortable. Find out where the tests are done.
Ask the stage of your cancer. Find out if your disease is expected to progress, what is your prognosis and the cure rates. Find out if your disease could go into remission.
Discuss treatment options with your doctor. Consider your medical history and current condition when deciding which approach is right for you. Find out the recommended treatment. Ask if there are alternate treatments. Ask how long treatment might be, the benefits vs. the risks of treatment, and find out what are the expected side effects of treatment.
Ask questions about clinical trials. Find out what they are: How do they help people with cancer, how will your progress be tracked, what happens if your disease progresses while you are in a clinical trial. How is treatment paid for and where you can get more information.
Find out where you can get support. Is there a social worker you can talk to? Find out where you can find information about coping with your diagnosis, financial support, etc. Find out how you can best minimize the psychological impact of the disease on yourself and your family.
Find out who you can call with questions or concerns during non-business hours.
