Be Prepared: Essential Questions for Your Initial Oncology Consultation

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. The flood of emotions, information, and decisions can make it difficult to know where to begin. At Conquering Wellness Consulting, we understand that being prepared for your first oncology appointment is a crucial step in taking control of your cancer journey.

This comprehensive guide provides you with essential questions to ask during your first appointment, helping you gather the information you need to make informed decisions about your care. Remember, you are your best advocate, and asking the right questions is the first step toward empowerment.

Before Your Appointment

Before diving into our checklist, here are a few tips to help you prepare:

• Bring a support person – Having someone with you can provide emotional support and help remember important information

• Take a notebook – Writing down answers ensures you won’t forget critical details

• Record the conversation – Ask permission first, but recording can be helpful for reviewing later

• Organize your thoughts – Prioritize your questions in case time runs short

  
  

Essential Questions About Your Diagnosis

Understanding your diagnosis is fundamental to making informed decisions about your treatment. Here are key questions to ask:

About the Diagnosis

• What type of cancer do I have?

• Where exactly is it located?

• Has it spread? What stage is it?

• What does my pathology report say?

• Can I get a copy of my pathology report and test results?

  
  

Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if medical terminology becomes confusing. Your healthcare team should be able to explain your diagnosis in terms you can understand.

Understanding Your Testing Plan

Comprehensive testing helps your medical team develop the most effective treatment plan for your specific situation.

Tests and Monitoring

• Will I need more tests before we decide on treatment?

• What are these tests for, and what will they show?

• How often will I need scans or follow-ups?

• How will we know if the treatment is working?

  
  

Exploring Your Treatment Options

There are often multiple approaches to cancer treatment. Understanding all available options helps you participate in making the best choice for your situation.

Treatment Options

• What are my treatment options?

• What do you recommend and why?

• How effective is this treatment for my type and stage of cancer?

• Are there clinical trials I should consider?

• What’s the goal of treatment (cure, control, symptom relief)?

  
  

Understanding Potential Impacts

Every treatment comes with benefits and challenges. Being prepared for potential side effects helps you manage expectations and plan accordingly.

Risks and Side Effects

• What are the short- and long-term side effects of treatment?

• How will this treatment affect my daily life?

• Will I be able to work or care for my family during treatment?

• What resources are available to help manage side effects?

Planning Your Treatment Journey

Knowing what to expect regarding timing helps you prepare practically and emotionally for the road ahead.

Timeline and Planning

• When do I need to start treatment?

• How long will each treatment session take?

• How long will the entire course of treatment last?

• What happens after treatment is completed?

Building Your Support Network

Cancer treatment isn’t just medical—it’s emotional, psychological, and practical. Building a support network is essential.

Second Opinions and Support

• Should I get a second opinion?

• Are there resources for emotional or mental health support?

• Can you connect me with a social worker, support group, or patient navigator?

• Are there financial assistance programs available?

Practical Considerations

Understanding the logistics of your care helps reduce anxiety and practical challenges.

Logistics

• Will I need to go to the hospital or can this be done outpatient?

• Is this treatment covered by insurance?

• Who do I contact with questions between appointments?

• What emergency situations should prompt me to call immediately?

Taking Care of Your Whole Self

Cancer treatment affects your entire well-being. Understanding how to support your body during treatment is important.

Lifestyle and Wellness

• Should I make any lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, supplements)?

• Are there things I should avoid during treatment?

• How can I maintain my emotional well-being during treatment?

• What complementary therapies might be helpful alongside my medical treatment?

Special Considerations for Parents of Children with Cancer

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, parents face unique challenges and questions. Here’s what to ask:

About Your Child’s Diagnosis

• What type of cancer does my child have?

• How advanced is it (stage and spread)?

• How did this happen — is it genetic or environmental?

• Can you explain the diagnosis in a way we can understand and explain to our child?

Tests and Monitoring for Your Child

• What tests has my child already had, and what were the results?

• Will additional tests be needed?

• How will you monitor my child’s response to treatment?

• How often will follow-up appointments or scans be?

Treatment Plan for Your Child

• What are the treatment options for this type of cancer in children?

• What’s the goal of treatment: cure, control, or symptom management?

• What is the expected success rate for children with this type of cancer?

• How long will treatment last, and what is the schedule?

  
  

Child-Centered Care

• How can we explain this to our child in an age-appropriate way?

• Will there be child life specialists or counselors involved?

• How can we help our child emotionally during this time?

• Are there school programs or educational support available?

After Your Appointment: Next Steps

After your first appointment, you’ll likely have a lot to process. Here are some suggestions:

1. Review your notes with your support person to ensure you understand everything discussed

2. Research credible sources for more information about your specific diagnosis

3. Prepare a list of follow-up questions for your next appointment

4. Connect with support groups specific to your type of cancer

5. Begin assembling your support team of friends and family who can help with practical needs

Your first oncology appointment is just the beginning of your cancer journey. Being prepared with these questions helps ensure you get the information you need to make informed decisions about your care. Remember, you are not alone—your healthcare team, support network, and organizations like Conquering Wellness Consulting are here to support you every step of the way.

Would you like to download a printable PDF version of this checklist to take to your appointment? Click here to access our printable resource.