What questions should I ask my oncologist about these treatment options
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For informational purposes only
This answer was generated by AI grounded in NCCN guidelines and published medical literature. It is not medical advice. Always consult your oncologist or care team before making treatment decisions.
Sources & medical oversight
- Developed under the medical oversight of OpenCancer’s physician-scientist team (Chris Apfel, MD/PhD/MBA, CMO · Kaumudi Bhawe, PhD, CSO).
- Last updated August 27, 2026. Informational only — not a substitute for your oncology team.
Questions to Ask Your Oncologist About Treatment Options
Based on the webinar "Self-Advocacy in the Era of Precision Medicine," here are the specific questions Rome Madison recommends:
Testing & Diagnosis Questions
- "My understanding is [X], is that correct?"
- "What additional data could I get to personalize my care and what additional tests might help guide my treatment?"
- "Can I get a comprehensive genomic profile?"
- "Why is biomarker testing needed?"
- "How will the test be done?"
- "What is the cost of the test?" and "Is the test covered by insurance?"
- "Can I get a copy of my test report?"
- "How frequently should I get tests?"
Treatment Options Questions
- "Are there alternative treatment options (besides the standard treatment)?"
- "Can I get a second opinion on my diagnosis and treatment plan?"
- "Under what circumstances will you change treatment if current options are not effective?"
- "Will the treatment you are proposing hurt my chances of responding to future treatments or preclude me from accessing future treatments?"
Clinical Trials Questions
- "Should I consider clinical trials?"
- "How can I find clinical trials that would be relevant to me?"
Family Impact Questions
- "What are the consequences of my diagnosis for my family members?"
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.
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