Surely, there are a lot of things going on your mind the minute you heard your doctor confirmed that you have cancer. You will cry - that is for sure. You will feel frustrated - it's normal. But after coping with your heartaches, you should begin to be objective. You have a lot of questions to ask your doctor after cancer diagnosis. Here are some of them:
What is this type of cancer?
Ask him as much info about your cancer. The more information you will obtain, the more you will be able to offer your trust and participate actively in the treatment plan.
What are the treatments readily available for me?
The very first question that should appear into your mind should relate to your recovery or survival. Ask about the treatment options available for you, when and how they will be conducted, and the positive (as well as the possible negative) results to your body. You should also ask if these procedures require confinement in the hospital and if there are medicines that you will still take. More important, you should ask for your chances of recovery.
What will be your objectives in managing my cancer?
There are different kinds of cancers, which also involve various levels. This is why it is important that you are aware of your healthcare professional's goals in the management of your cancer. Is it to completely remove the tumor or reduce its size? Is it to also ease symptoms? If yes, what particular symptoms are more likely to be relieved?
What are the standards for the success of each treatment?
You should take your cancer seriously. Get a notebook and get the exact benchmarks for the success of each operation according to your oncologist. In this way, you will be able to observe your situation after each treatment process and determine if it is working for you.
How much everything will definitely cost me?
This should be included in the questions to ask your doctor after cancer diagnosis. It is advisable to get ready financially. Inquire the cost of the procedures and check out your bank account if you have enough cash to cover everything or make inquiries with your insurance provider if it will cover everything. If your total funds are sufficient or if your insurance policy covers all, you are in luck simply because you do not have to be worried about the finances. Otherwise, you will have to find out where you will get the amount that you need.
What are the changes that I must do with my lifestyle? Can these still assist with my condition?
You should also ask how you can help yourself, like if performing some lifestyle changes may still help with your condition at this time. If he said yes, relate to him your lifestyle habits and know which one you should stay away from. You may also do some research to obtain more information.
You may likewise ask your doctor if it is okay to obtain second opinion. Most healthcare specialists will not mind this. In fact, they will even suggest that you do this to be able to verify his cancer diagnosis. Similarly, inquire if you will have a healthcare team (which commonly consists of oncologist, therapist, nutritionist, nurse and others) that will be involved in your treatment. These are additional questions that you should ask your doctor after cancer diagnosis.
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