10 Questions to Ask Your Oncologist

Navigating a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially when you're suddenly expected to make important decisions in a short amount of time. One of the most empowering things you can do is prepare thoughtful questions before each oncology appointment. Being informed not only gives you more control but also improves communication with your care team. Below are 10 essential questions to guide your discussions—and how a cancer care advocate like Nurse Amy can help you feel confident and supported throughout the process.

Here are initial questions to ask your oncologist:

1. What type of cancer do I have, and what stage is it?

Understanding your diagnosis is the first step in your treatment journey. Ask your oncologist to explain the type and stage of cancer, how it was determined, and what it means for your treatment plan. Request a copy of your pathology report and any imaging or test results for your personal records.

Why it matters: Knowing the specifics helps guide your treatment decisions and sets the tone for future appointments. A cancer care advocate can help break down complex medical terminology, clarify any confusing details, and help you prepare follow-up questions that ensure you're truly informed.

If you're just beginning this journey and feeling unsure of what steps to take, you may also want to read our guide on the Top 10 Things to Do After a Cancer Diagnosis. It covers essential first actions that can bring clarity and calm in those early days.

2. What are my treatment options, and which do you recommend?

Each cancer case is unique, and there are often multiple treatment paths to consider, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and clinical trials. Ask about the pros and cons of each option, why one might be recommended over another, and whether there's time to get a second opinion.

Nurse Amy helps patients navigate these choices by translating medical language into everyday terms, identifying key decision points, and ensuring that you feel confident and informed before committing to a treatment plan. She can also help coordinate consultations with specialists, compare options, and advocate for your preferences.

3. What is the goal of this treatment?

Clarify whether your treatment is curative (aimed at eliminating cancer), palliative (focused on symptom management), or somewhere in between. Ask what success looks like and how you'll know if the treatment is working. Understanding the intent behind treatment helps you set expectations and goals.

Your advocate ensures your personal goals—whether it's maintaining quality of life, attending important life events, or pursuing aggressive treatment—are part of the conversation and care plan. Nurse Amy ensures you never feel rushed or pressured into decisions you’re not ready to make.

4. What side effects should I expect, and how can I manage them?

Treatments can have both short- and long-term side effects. It’s important to know what to anticipate so you can plan ahead. Ask about the most common side effects, rare but serious risks, and what support is available.

A nurse advocate helps you set up systems for managing symptoms, connect with specialists like nutritionists or physical therapists, and access medications or complementary therapies to ease your experience. Nurse Amy can help you proactively manage symptoms so you're not caught off guard by your body's response to treatment.

5. How will treatment affect my day-to-day life?

Understanding how treatment will impact your ability to work, socialize, travel, or care for others is critical. Ask what adjustments might be necessary and how to maintain a sense of normalcy. This includes considerations like fertility, sexual health, and physical activity.

Nurse Amy can help you create a personalized plan that balances treatment with your lifestyle, including meal planning, scheduling transportation, and setting realistic routines. She ensures you don't lose sight of the life you're working so hard to preserve.

6. Are there supportive or palliative care services available?

Ask about access to emotional support, symptom management, and integrative therapies. Many hospitals and clinics offer counseling, acupuncture, massage, art therapy, or support groups as part of a comprehensive care plan.

A cancer care advocate can connect you with services tailored to your needs and values, ensuring you’re supported in body, mind, and spirit. Nurse Amy works to make sure that care isn't just clinical, but also compassionate.

Many patients don’t realize they can have someone in their corner to help guide and support them through every part of their cancer care. If you’re curious about this role, check out our post on What Is a Cancer Patient Advocate? to learn how Nurse Amy supports you medically, emotionally, and logistically.

7. What financial or insurance support is available?

Treatment can be expensive, and unexpected bills can add stress. Ask your oncologist or care team what costs to anticipate, what insurance will cover, and if financial counselors or assistance programs are available.

Nurse Amy helps patients navigate the insurance maze, submit paperwork for pre-authorization, and explore financial aid opportunities so you can focus on healing, not billing. She can also help you find free or low-cost community resources to bridge any gaps in coverage.

8. How can I prepare for this treatment?

Ask whether you need to stop any medications, adjust your diet, or undergo pre-treatment tests. Find out if there are exercises, supplements, or mental health tools that can support your readiness.

Together with your care team, an advocate helps you prepare mentally and physically by creating a wellness plan that aligns with your treatment goals, energy levels, and personal preferences. Nurse Amy will help you go into treatment with a sense of preparedness and peace of mind.

9. How will we monitor progress, and what happens if the treatment doesn’t work?

Discuss how treatment success will be measured and what the benchmarks are. Ask what happens if things don’t go as expected and whether there are backup plans.

With an advocate, you’ll feel equipped to track your progress, ask about changes in your treatment plan, and explore next steps with clarity and calm. Nurse Amy is there to help interpret results, manage expectations, and consider all available options.

10. What happens next?

Cancer care doesn’t stop after one appointment. Ask about what’s coming up—follow-ups, scans, lifestyle changes, and support needs. Understanding the big picture can help you feel less overwhelmed and more in control.

Nurse Amy supports you beyond the treatment room—whether you’re preparing for survivorship, continuing treatment, or adjusting your support system. From organizing records to processing emotions, she’s your go-to resource every step of the way.

📝 Download Your Free Checklist

Want to feel more prepared for your next appointment? We’ve created a free printable checklist with these 10 questions so you can take notes, highlight your priorities, and bring clarity into your conversations with your care team.

Download the “10 Questions to Ask Your Oncologist” Checklist (PDF)

You can also work with Nurse Amy to personalize this list—ensuring you ask the right questions at the right time and ensuring your voice is heard. With so many decisions to make, having an expert by your side brings clarity, reassurance, and a sense of control. Nurse Amy brings over 20 years of experience as an oncology-certified nurse to guide you through your appointments, help you communicate with confidence, and make sure no question goes unasked or unanswered.

Don’t go through it alone—support is here for you. 📞 Book your free consultation with Nurse Amy today.

Also Read: Top 10 Things to Do After a Cancer Diagnosis