Chemotherapy: If You Are Considering It
Questions for the healthcare provider
-
What is chemotherapy and how does it work?
-
What is chemotherapy used for?
-
Why do I need this treatment?
-
What medicines will I be taking? How often? For how long? What will they do?
-
What are the goals of chemotherapy for me?
-
How soon do I need to start treatment?
-
How effective is the treatment likely to be for me?
-
How will I know the chemotherapy is working?
-
What are the risks of taking chemotherapy?
-
Where will I get treatment? Should I bring anything with me?
-
Will I be able to drive myself or take public transportation to and from treatment?
-
Who will give me the treatment?
-
Should I do anything to prepare for treatment?
-
Can I take my other medicines during treatment?
-
Do I need other treatments as well?
-
What are the short- and long-term side effects that I can expect?
-
How long will the side effects last?
-
Will there be side effects I need to call you about? How do I get help on evenings, weekends, or holidays?
-
What can I do to ease or prevent the side effects?
-
Will I be able to have children after chemo?
-
Will I be able to go to work and be around my family?
-
Will I need to change my diet or activities in any way? Are there foods I should not eat?
-
Are there support groups that I can join?
-
How much will it cost? Will my insurance cover it?
-
Should I get a second opinion?
-
Are there any clinical trials I should look for?
Online Medical Reviewer:
Jessica Gotwals RN BSN MPH
Online Medical Reviewer:
Sabrina Felson MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Todd Gersten MD
Date Last Reviewed:
5/1/2023
© 2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions.