Neuroendocrine Tumor - Questions to Ask the Doctor
Questions to Ask the Doctor
Talking often with the doctor is important [2] to make informed decisions about your health care. These suggested questions are a starting point to help you learn more about your cancer care and treatment. You are also encouraged to ask additional questions that are important to you.
- What type of neuroendocrine tumor do I have?
- What is the stage of my tumor? What does this mean?
- Can you explain my pathology report (laboratory test results) to me?
- How much experience do you have in treating this type of tumor?
- What organs does the tumor affect?
- What are my treatment options?
- What clinical trials are open to me?
- What treatment plan do you recommend? Why?
- Can surgery be done to remove the entire tumor?
- Who will be part of my health care team, and what does each member do?
- Who will be coordinating my overall treatment and follow-up care?
- What are the possible side effects of this treatment, both in the short term and the long term?
- Are the side effects permanent?
- What medications will reduce side effects?
- May I have some reading materials on my tumor and medications? Where can I get more information on my diagnosis and treatment?
- How will this treatment affect my daily life? Will I be able to work, exercise, and perform my usual activities?
- Could this treatment affect my sex life? If so, how and for how long?
- Could this treatment affect my ability to become pregnant or have children? If so, should I talk with a fertility specialist before cancer treatment begins?
- If I’m worried about managing the costs related to my cancer care, who can help me with these concerns?
- What follow-up tests will I need, and how often will I need them?
- What support services are available to me? To my family?
- Whom do I call for questions or problems?