Should I bring someone with me?

Yes, especially to the first few visits. A second person catches details you will miss and can take notes while you focus on the conversation. If no one can come, ask your oncologist if you can record the visit on your phone.

What if I disagree with the recommended treatment?

Say so. A good oncologist will explain the reasoning, present alternatives, and either persuade you or adjust the plan. If you still feel uncertain, get a second opinion — most oncologists welcome them.

How do I bring up things I read online?

Just ask directly: "I read X — does that apply to my situation?" Your oncologist would much rather discuss it with you than have you act on it without telling them.

Questions to Ask Your Oncologist | OncoChat

A prioritized list of questions for the first appointment, before starting treatment, and during ongoing visits — so you leave each one with what you actually needed.

Oncology visits are short and dense. The patients who get the most out of them come prepared with a written list — not a long one, but a prioritized one — and a person to take notes. Below are the questions that matter most at each stage of treatment.

At the first appointment after diagnosis

What kind of cancer do I have, in plain language?
What stage and grade is it, and what does that mean for me specifically?
Has my case been (or will it be) reviewed at a tumor board?
Do I have time to get a second opinion before deciding on treatment?
What biomarker or molecular testing has been done on my tumor, and is more recommended?

Before starting treatment

What is the goal of treatment for me — cure, long-term control, or symptom relief?
What are my treatment options, and why are you recommending this one?
What are the most common and most serious side effects I should know about?
How will we measure whether the treatment is working?
Are there clinical trials I should consider — here or elsewhere?
What does this treatment cost, and who can help me with insurance and financial questions?

During ongoing treatment

What changes (symptoms, side effects, lab values) should make me call you between visits?
Am I responding to treatment the way you expected at this point?
Are there any dose adjustments or schedule changes you are considering?
What can I do at home to feel better and stay strong through treatment?

Frequently asked

Should I bring someone with me?: Yes, especially to the first few visits. A second person catches details you will miss and can take notes while you focus on the conversation. If no one can come, ask your oncologist if you can record the visit on your phone.
What if I disagree with the recommended treatment?: Say so. A good oncologist will explain the reasoning, present alternatives, and either persuade you or adjust the plan. If you still feel uncertain, get a second opinion — most oncologists welcome them.
How do I bring up things I read online?: Just ask directly: "I read X — does that apply to my situation?" Your oncologist would much rather discuss it with you than have you act on it without telling them.

Questions to Ask Your Oncologist

At the first appointment after diagnosis

Before starting treatment

During ongoing treatment

Frequently asked

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