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The ConfidentPatient:A Doctor Discussion Guidefor Navigating Cancer Care

Play an active role in your care

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is life-changing, and it’s only the beginning. Whether you are living with melanoma, upper gastrointestinal cancer, advanced renal cell carcinoma, or another type of cancer, managing frequent appointments and treatments can feel like a full-time job.

Clear communication with your care team can lead to more productive appointments, and it starts by asking questions. Planning what you want to discuss helps you play an active role in your cancer care – and feel more in control.

Cut through the noise

New information arrives in all phases of a cancer journey, but overwhelming internet searches may leave you feeling unsure of where to turn next.

Your appointments are an opportunity to hear information tailored to your specific needs. To make the most of a visit, bring a notepad, a list of current medications, and a friend for support.

The more information you provide, the more your doctor can guide you. The clearer their guidance, the easier it is to see the path ahead. One good discussion can provide a great deal of hope.

Questions to ask your care team

Preparing for your next appointment? Bringing a short list of questions helps to make sure you cover what matters most to you. Use this list to start preparing for discussions with your care team.

    Processing a new diagnosis:
  • What specific tests will be used to monitor my cancer and how often will they be performed?
  • What should we look for in the test results?
  • What treatment options should I consider right now?
  • What is the goal of this treatment? Are we trying to eliminate the cancer or slow its growth?

    Managing your care and symptoms:
  • What signs and symptoms should I report and when should I call?
  • What early signs might indicate things are changing?
  • What non-medication options, such as physical therapy or diet changes, could help me manage symptoms?
  • What symptoms should I track at home that would be helpful for our next appointment?

    Exploring treatment options:
  • How do we decide whether it's time to change my current treatment?
  • Are there logistical challenges, such as travel or scheduling, for the treatments that I should consider?
  • How long does the treatment take and is it administered at home or at a clinic?
  • If we switch treatments, what is the expected timeline for assessing its effectiveness?

Remember that you know your body better than anyone. A good description of what you’re feeling, paired with your care team’s medical expertise, can create a powerful partnership.

Symptom Check-in

What’s changed?

Your body sends signals when something's not quite right. Pay attention to any new or unexplained symptoms – no matter how minor – because the details you share are important pieces of the puzzle. Let’s see how you’ve been feeling lately.

In the past month, have you experienced any of the following?

☐ New or increased fatigue
☐ Persistent pain
☐ Changes in your weight
☐ Unexplained skin changes
☐ Frequent fevers or night sweats
☐ Changes in bowel or bladder habits
☐ Unexplained bleeding or discharge
☐ Changes to respiratory health

The Check-up

Make the most of your appointment

Every appointment is time that belongs to you. Don't hesitate to speak up to ensure you leave with a clear, empowering action plan.

    When you talk with your oncologist, you might say:
  • “I’ve noticed more pain in this area lately.”
  • “I think this symptom is beyond what you said to expect.”
  • “Here’s how treatment days are impacting my quality of life.”

Remember: Cancer care means partnering with doctors in a whole new way. Your voice is a powerful tool – use it!

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