Questions to ask your Doctor
An important part of taking an active role in your care is asking questions. So be sure to talk with your doctor or nurse about any issues or concerns you have about your treatment or health status.
It always helps to plan what you are going to ask in advance. Below are some sample questions you may want to ask your doctor or nurse.
Questions for your doctor or nurse
- How can I prepare for my treatment?
- What side effects do patients most often have with this treatment?
- Will some side effects get worse with each treatment cycle?
- Do some side effects occur later in treatment than others?
- What can I do to manage the physical side effects of treatment?
- What symptoms or problems should I report right away?
- Will my treatment change my daily activities and my ability to meet my responsibilities while it is going on?
- Can I go back to my normal daily activities after treatment?
- How often will I need to be checked after my treatment?
- How can I contact you if I have questions or concerns?
- What patient resources do you recommend?
- How will the decision be made if and when my current therapy needs to change?
- How can I prepare my family for how treatment will affect me?
Bring a pen and paper to take notes
You may want to use a notebook to write down your questions and/or other important information like appointment dates and times as well as advice from your doctor or nurse.
