Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Your Diagnosis

Doctor sitting at a desk across from a patient
Credit: iStock

Learning that you have cancer can be a shock and you may feel overwhelmed at first. When you meet with your doctor, you will hear a lot of information. These questions may help you learn more about your cancer and what you can expect next.

  • What type of cancer do I have?
  • What is the stage of my cancer?
  • Has it spread to other areas of my body?
  • Will I need more tests before treatment begins? Which ones?
  • Will I need a specialist(s) for my cancer treatment?
  • Will you help me find a doctor to give me another opinion on the best treatment plan for me?
  • How serious is my cancer?
  • What are my chances of survival?

For questions about other topics, see our complete list of Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Cancer.

  • Reviewed: August 9, 2018

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