Chemotherapy: If You Are Considering It

Questions for the healthcare provider

• What is chemotherapy and how does it work?

• What is chemotherapy used for?

• Why do I need this treatment?

• What medicines will I be taking? How often? For how long? What will they do?

• What are the goals of chemotherapy for me?

• How soon do I need to start treatment?

• How effective is the treatment likely to be for me?

• How will I know the chemotherapy is working?

• What are the risks of taking chemotherapy?

• Where will I get treatment? Should I bring anything with me?

• Will I be able to drive myself or take public transportation to and from treatment?

• Who will give me the treatment?

• Should I do anything to prepare for treatment?

• Can I take my other medicines during treatment?

• Do I need other treatments as well?

• What are the short- and long-term side effects that I can expect?

• How long will the side effects last?

• Will there be side effects I need to call you about? How do I get help on evenings, weekends, or holidays?

• What can I do to ease or prevent the side effects?

• Will I be able to have children after chemo?

• Will I be able to go to work and be around my family?

• Will I need to change my diet or activities in any way? Are there foods I should not eat?

• Are there support groups that I can join?

• How much will it cost? Will my insurance cover it?

• Should I get a second opinion?

• Are there any clinical trials I should look for?