Questions to Ask Your Doctor About After-Treatment Planning

 

Here are some suggested questions to ask regarding your follow-up care:


  • What will my follow-up schedule be for physical examinations, laboratory tests, and scans?
  • What are the chances of my cancer coming back or of my developing a new cancer?
  • How long will I be on my maintenance therapy? For the rest of my life? Which doctor will provide my follow-up care and which ones will provide other medical care?
  • How can I manage any long-term side effects?
  • What wellness habits should I develop?
  • (For smokers) Can you suggest a smoking cessation program?
  • Do I have any special nutritional needs now that my treatment has ended?
  • My partner does not understand why I'm not as interested in sex ever since my treatment for cancer. What can I do to feel sexual again, and how can I help my partner understand this issue?
  • Do I need to take special care in connection with exercising? Are there any special exercises you can recommend to increase my flexibility, relieve muscle tension? Should I see a specialist such as a physical therapist?
  • Is it normal to feel depressed and anxious some of the time? Should I see a mental health professional such as a psychologist? Can you refer me to one?
  • (If your insurance company is denying some or all of your coverage for follow-up care): Where can I get help with my health insurance coverage for my follow-up care? Are there any assistance plans available to me?
  • How can I find out about joining a support group?
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