Talking with your doctors and nurses may be difficult at first, but the more you do it, the easier it becomes. Here are some recommendations:

• Think of questions before your appointment, write them down, and then make sure you ask them. For ideas, read Questions to Ask the Doctor.
  
  
• Have as much of your personal information written down as possible. Use My Medical History as a guide. This will help you focus on any new information the doctor will give you rather than having to think about any conditions or treatments you've had in the past.
  
  
• Find out if you can communicate with your doctor and/or nurse by email. If not, ask whether you can mail or drop off questions to answer at your next visit.
  
  
• Don't be shy about taking notes.
  
  
• Ask for an explanation if you hear something you don't understand.
  
  
• Before you start treatment, ask about clinical trials for which you may be eligible. Ask early, because you may not be eligible for a clinical trial if you have started treatment.
  
  
• If you have a suggestion or preference about your care, let your doctors or nurses know—maybe you want to delay a round of chemotherapy, so you can go to a special event. (The answer may be "yes," but you won't know if you don't ask.)
  
  
• Ask as many questions as you need to make sure that you are comfortable with all of the information your doctor is sharing with you.
  
  
• Bring someone with you.
  
  
• Ask if you can tape record the conversation.
  
  
• Don't be afraid to ask your doctor to support you in seeking a second opinion. Experienced oncologists know that second opinions are reasonable and can help you make informed decisions.

Communicating your feelings

Nobody knows your body better than you. Doctors and nurses are experts in treating cancer and want to help you, but they are not mind readers. Here are some recommendations that may help:

• Talk honestly about how you are feeling—they need to know how your body is dealing with both the cancer and the treatment.
  
  
• If you are in the hospital, let the staff know your needs, so they can keep you as comfortable as possible. The doctors, nurses, and trained volunteers are there to help.

More Information

Cancer.Net: Helpful Hints for Doctor Visits

Cancer.Net: Cancer in Young Adults