The Essential 11: Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Team When Facing Cancer

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, you might be overwhelmed by the amount of questions you have. You could be wondering more about your condition, how to take care of yourself, and many other things.

Clear communication with your healthcare team can make everything less daunting. Asking questions can help you feel empowered and better informed. And feeling empowered can make you more confident in the care you’re getting.

To help you through this challenging time, here’s a list of 11 questions to ask your healthcare team and why these questions are important. It may be helpful to print out this list and take it to your next appointment.

If you think of any other questions, jot them down. Ask your loved ones if they have any questions, too. It might be good to take a friend or family member with you to your appointments. They can help you remember what questions to ask. They can also help by listening to the answers from your healthcare team.

Questions to ask your healthcare provider

1. What type of cancer do I have?

Understand the specifics of your cancer. This will help you comprehend your situation and make informed decisions. Ask for details about the cancer’s location and aggressiveness.

2. What are my treatment options? What do you recommend?

Learn about the different treatments available, such as:

  • Surgery
  • Radiation
  • Chemotherapy
  • Immunotherapy
  • Targeted therapy

Ask about the potential side effects and expected results, too.

3. What are the goals of my treatment plan?

Knowing the purpose of your treatment is important. Some treatments are to cure or control cancer. Others improve symptoms. Ask about the chances of success and the possibility of the cancer returning.

4. How will my treatment affect my daily life?

Talk about potential changes to your routine. This might include work, physical activity, and your social life. Ask about any restrictions you’ll have and how long they may last. Discuss ways to minimize disruptions to your routine.

5. Are there any clinical trials I can do?

Clinical trials let you access experimental treatments. Ask about the following for any relevant trials:

  • Benefits
  • Risks
  • Eligibility requirements

6. What tests will I have to monitor my progress?

Understand the tests and scans you may have throughout your treatment, such as:

  • Blood tests
  • Imaging studies
  • Biopsies

Ask your provider how often you may have them, too.

7. When should I call you?

Know when to contact your healthcare provider if problems or complications develop. You’d want to call if you have new or worsening symptoms, side effects, or other concerns.

Your provider is there to bring you peace of mind about any worries you may have. Letting them know right away if something comes up means you can get help faster, too. Ask how to reach your provider after hours, on weekends or holidays.

8. How can I manage side effects and symptoms during treatment?

Your healthcare team can guide you in managing and minimizing side effects and symptoms. Some you might have include:

  • Pain
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea

9. What follow-up care will I need after treatment?

Learn about the follow-up appointments, tests, and possible long-term effects of treatment. Discuss how often you’ll have the appointments as well. Also ask about what signs may mean a recurrence of the cancer or a new health issue. You’ll need to know about any rehab services or ongoing therapies that you may need to support your recovery, too.

10. How can I maintain a healthy lifestyle during and after treatment?

Talk about healthy eating, physical activity, and other lifestyle choices that can support your overall health and well-being. Ask your healthcare team for specific recommendations for you. This might include changes to your diet to manage side effects or movement modifications if you have physical limitations. See if complementary therapies, like acupuncture or massage, may help you.

11. Where can I go for resources and support?

Having cancer is an emotional experience. Get the care you need to stay healthy mentally as well as physically. Your healthcare team can recommend the following to help you cope:

  • Support groups - in person or online
  • Counseling services
  • Educational materials

Cancer treatments can be expensive, too. Contact your health insurance company to find out what is covered on your plan. Ask your provider about financial assistance programs that may be available. They might have information about other resources, such as transportation services if you need a ride to appointments.

These 11 questions are a helpful starting point when talking with your healthcare team. You may have other questions to add to this list. Know that your team is there to answer any questions at any time throughout your cancer treatment.