Chemotherapy: If You Are Considering It

Questions for the healthcare provider

  • What is chemotherapy and how does it work?

  • What is chemotherapy used for?

  • Why do I need this treatment?

  • What medicines will I be taking? How often? For how long? What will they do?

  • What are the goals of chemotherapy for me?

  • How soon do I need to start treatment?

  • How effective is the treatment likely to be for me?

  • How will I know the chemotherapy is working?

  • What are the risks of taking chemotherapy?

  • Where will I get treatment? Should I bring anything with me?

  • Will I be able to drive myself or take public transportation to and from treatment?

  • Who will give me the treatment?

  • Should I do anything to prepare for treatment?

  • Can I take my other medicines during treatment?

  • Do I need other treatments as well?

  • What are the short- and long-term side effects that I can expect?

  • How long will the side effects last?

  • Will there be side effects I need to call you about? How do I get help on evenings, weekends, or holidays?

  • What can I do to ease or prevent the side effects?

  • Will I be able to have children after chemo?

  • Will I be able to go to work and be around my family?

  • Will I need to change my diet or activities in any way? Are there foods I should not eat?

  • Are there support groups that I can join?

  • How much will it cost? Will my insurance cover it?

  • Should I get a second opinion?

  • Are there any clinical trials I should look for?