Frequently Asked Questions

An effective treatment is always aided by effective communication between the patient and his doctor and by the patient’s understanding of the approach to the disease and treatment. Patients are sometimes reluctant to ask questions about issues or are unsure of what to ask. Please ask for detailed information and explanations on any topic or instruction that you do not fully understand. Do not hesitate to ask the same question again if you are not sure that our answer is clear.

Here is a list of questions that will help you gather all the information you need:

Questions

• Do you see other patients with the same diagnosis with mine?
• What is the goal of my treatment? A complete cure or the arrest of the advancement of the disease?
• When, how often and where will I receive my treatment?
  • How do I know if my treatment is effective?
  • How can a change in dosage or the time I get my treatment affect outcome?
  • What are the names of the drugs I will be taking during my treatment?
  • Can I come in contact with other patients receiving the same treatment?
  • How often must I undergo follow up tests?
  • What tests should be conducted?
  • Are there genetic tests for my type of illness?
  • What risk factors or complications are associated with each treatment?
  • What kind of side effects should I be prepared for?
  • When will the side effects start?
  • Are there treatments that can relieve me from side effects?
  • How can my treatment affect my daily life and my activities?
  • What should I do if I have a fever?
  • Will I be able to work?
  • Will I need someone to help me with my daily activities?
  • Are there some activities that I should avoid during chemotherapy?
  • What happens when chemotherapy is finished?
  • How often do I need to do clinical laboratory re-test?
  • What happens if the disease reappears?
  • When will I know if I am doing well?