Gather all your medical notes and laboratory notes in a three-ring binder Write down all questions in advance of your appointment. Consider investing in a good tape recorder to take along. If possible take someone along to take notes for you.

*It is good to type the following information and make copies to take to each of your doctors.

Information for your doctor:

Make note of any changes in your ability to perform physical activity.
Notice if you are guarding any part of the body.
Note the characteristics and location of any pain.
Make a list of all symptoms you are experiencing.
Bring results of any bone density test performed in the past.
Gather all prior laboratory and imaging study results.
Tell your doctor if you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis.
Make note of all concerns about any potential treatments.
List all past treatments and experiences with any of these treatments.
List all current medications.

Questions to ask:

What tests can diagnose my lung cancer?
Are they painful?
How soon after the tests will I learn the results?
What type of lung cancer do I have?
What is my expected survival rate, based on my cancer as you view it?

Treatment:

What treatments are recommended for me?
What clinical trials are appropriate for my type of cancer?
Will I need to be in the hospital to receive my treatment? For how long?
How might my normal activities change during my treatment?

Side Effects:

What side effects should I expect?
How long will they last?
What side effects should I report?
Whom should I call?

Follow-up

After treatment, how often do I need to be checked?
What type of follow-up care should I have?
Will I eventually be able to resume my normal activities?

The Health Care Team:

Who will be involved with my treatment and rehabilitation?
What is the role of each member of the health care team in my care?
What has been your experience in caring for patients with lung cancer?

Resources:

Are there support groups in the area with people I can talk to?
Are there organizations where I can get more information about cancer, specifically lung cancer?

***On a personal note, these questions were compiled from numerous sources, I only wish I had them when my mother was diagnosed. I would have handed a copy to each doctor she saw. One other question I have learned to ask is "If this was your mother (father) what would you do?" Use all resources available and make the best decisions you can. It is never wrong to ask a question!

Always,
Christine

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Updated
6-10-04