Questions to Ask Your Oncologist

Having been told that you have cancer is bad enough but it is very overwhelming when it comes to talking to your oncologist for the first time. This is a list of what I consider to be important questions to ask your oncologist.

Feel free to use only the ones that you think apply to you. Talk them over with your family members and friends to judge which are the most important. Make sure to take a support person with you for your visits. They are your eyes and ears at the appointment and will often be less emotional with more objectivity. If the doctor is comfortable, record the conversation on your phone so that you can listen to it later when you are out of the doctor’s office.

Here's a list of important questions to consider asking:

1. What type and stage of cancer do I have?

2. Is this cancer very aggressive or do I have time to think over the information that you give me to make a more informed decision?

3. What are the treatment options available for my type and stage of cancer?

4. If it was you who had this cancer, or someone in your immediate family would you provide the same treatment that you are recommending to me now?

5. What are the potential side effects of each treatment option?

6. How much time do you think I have to live if I do the treatments you recommend?

7. How much time do you think I have to live if I do nothing?

8. What is the 5-year disease-free survival rate for my specific diagnosis with your recommended treatment protocol?

9. How will the treatment plan be tailored to my specific needs and circumstances?

10. What are the goals of treatment (e.g., cure, symptom management, palliative only)?

11. How many people have you cured of cancer using this treatment regime?

12. How will treatment affect my daily life, including work, family, and hobbies?

13. Can you supply me with a list of the medications that you are recommending?

14. Are there any clinical trials or experimental treatments that I might be eligible for?

15. How will you monitor my progress during treatment?

16. What support services are available to me and my family during treatment?

17. How much is this treatment going to cost?

18. Do you give a refund if it doesn’t work?

19. Is it true that chemotherapy drugs can make cancer more aggressive?

20. How should I prepare for treatment, both physically and emotionally?

21. Are there any complementary or alternative therapies that could help with side effects or overall well-being?

22. How can I manage any pain or discomfort that may arise during treatment and where do I go to get help with this?

23. What signs or symptoms should I watch for and report between appointments?

24. Will I be able to maintain my current level of physical activity during treatment?

25. How will treatment affect my diet and nutritional needs?

26. Do you know of any special diets and natural supplements that I can take to help my body heal by itself?

27. Are there any medications or supplements I should avoid during treatment?

28. How will my treatment plan be coordinated with other healthcare providers I may see?

29. Who else can you suggest to add to my Health team apart from you and my general practitioner – ie: massage therapist, naturopath, pharmacist

30. What are the long-term side effects or risks associated with the treatments being recommended?

31. How will my treatment plan be adjusted if my condition changes or if I experience complications?

32. Are there any resources or educational materials you recommend for me to learn more about my diagnosis and treatment options?

Feeling overwhelmed by all the questions? I feel as though I could go on for many more. Be selective or let your brain create ones applicable to your circumstances.

Over the last 13 years, I have been to many oncologist appointments. I still can’t get over the dread each time I go, and I don’t think that I ever will. I live by my daily mantra – “I am happy, healthy, and full of life. I feel fantastic, so I am not sick, and my body can heal itself.”

Some may think it’s delusional, but I’m still here, so I feel that it works for me. Be a problem solver, not a victim. Healing is something you have to do every day. It’s important that that is your end goal, and you are doing as much as you can to promote health and healing in your body. Wishing you all the best and sending hugs - Louise.