Questions to ask your care team

It’s easy to walk out of an appointment and realize afterward you forgot to ask something important. Bringing a written list of questions — even a short one — can help you get the most out of your visit. Here are some starting points to consider.

About your diagnosis

• What is my specific diagnosis, and what does it mean for my treatment options?
• Is radiation therapy being recommended on its own, or alongside other treatments?
• What is the goal of treatment in my case?

About the treatment itself

• What type of radiation therapy is being recommended, and why?
• How many sessions will I need, and how long does the full course typically take?
• What should I expect during the simulation and planning appointment?

About side effects and daily life

• What side effects are most common with this type of treatment?
• Are there things I should avoid, or precautions I should take, during treatment?
• Can I continue working, exercising, or traveling during my treatment course?

About next steps

• What follow-up care will I need after treatment ends?
• Who should I contact if I have questions or concerns between visits?
• Is there anything I should bring or prepare before my next appointment?

You don’t need to ask every question on this list — use whichever are relevant to you, and don’t hesitate to add your own. No question is too small.