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Your relationship with your doctor is critical; you should feel 100% comfortable with your doctor. This means he or she should work with you, not against you, throughout your diagnosis and treatment. An important part of managing your care is knowing what questions to ask of your doctor. Here are some ideas for getting the information you need: - First, take a friend or loved one to all of your appointments. Having someone with you will boost your confidence in speaking with your doctor and serve as your support should you receive difficult news.
- Don’t let your doctor tell you how you feel. If you know there is something wrong, be persistent. If your attempts fail, choose another doctor. Do not operate under the assumption that the doctor is always right.
- Get ten opinions if you need to. If you are not comfortable with your diagnosis, go to another doctor. Do what you need to do to come to terms with your cancer.
- If you do not understand something that your doctor is telling you ask for clarification. It is important that you know and understand every aspect of your cancer.
- Get involved in treatment options. Do not let others make your decisions for you. When you are the decision maker you're more in control of the situation.
- Do not let yourself be rushed when you are with the doctor. You should be treated as though you are the doctor’s number one priority during your scheduled appointment.
- Be assertive and remember that there are no stupid questions.
Visit the following websites for samples questions to ask your doctor. National Cancer Institute: National Cancer Institute: American Cancer Society: American Cancer Society: American Cancer Society: American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO): |
Coping with Cancer 