Diagnosis

1. What test or examination indicated I have cancer?

   While a doctor, such as a surgeon or internist, may suspect cancer, the actual diagnosis is made by a pathologist, a doctor specially trained to examine a tissue or blood specimen under a microscope.

2. What type of cancer do I have, and what is its medical name?

   For example, if the doctor says “lung cancer,” ask which type of lung cancer. Often there are different treatments for different types of cancer, even though they may occur in the same part of the body.

3. Has cancer spread beyond the original site (the place where it started)?

4. If it has spread, where and how far has the cancer spread, and what test or tests identified the extent of the spread?

5. Will additional tests be necessary to determine the likelihood and possible location of any spreading?

   Often it is unwise to begin cancer treatment until adequate testing has been performed to determine whether the cancer has spread beyond the original site. If this is the case, a different treatment plan may be recommended.

6. What are the risks (both temporary and long-term) in having these tests?

7. Please explain these tests. When and where will they be done?

8. What will these tests show or indicate?

9. I’d like to see my medical records (the test reports/surgical notes) pertaining to the tests that have been completed and the operation that was performed.

   Much of what your doctor tells you will be based on these records. Many patients are concerned that seeing their records will make them anxious, and they do not want to see them. Other patients feel they can participate more effectively as partners with their doctors by having this information. Due to the technical terms that commonly are used and the fact that often they are subject to interpretation, we suggest you ask your doctor to help you understand these records. Sometimes it takes time to get records from other sources. Work with your doctor’s office to figure out a reasonable time for getting the documents.

10. What stage is the cancer in? How was this determined?

11. What resources (printed materials, videos, computer resources, hotlines, or organizations) are available to help me learn more about the type of cancer I have and to help me cope with the disease and its treatment?

    You may also want to ask a nurse or hospital social worker about available resources.

 

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