Questions to ask in oncology appointment

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I have my long awaited oncology appointment next week to discuss my treatment plan. I am having chemotherapy first for breast cancer. (estrogen positive progesterone positive her2 negative).

Are there any questions anyone can recommend would be good to ask during this meeting. I'm so nervous and I'm finding it difficult to concentrate on what I should ask so I thought I would come on here first and ask.

  • I found it helpful to go through the treatment plan - which drugs, how many cycles, when and how delivered. Assuming intravenously, do they want you to have a line? If so can you have a portacath (assuming you would prefer one - look up the difference between a portacath and a PICC if you are not sure). Where is the unit (if you don’t know)? Can you bring someone with you if you wish (in my hospital the answer is no)?

    How will they monitor you / what other drugs will be supplied during treatment or afterwards? How do you contact them if you have an issue? Are there any periods within the cycles when you are more vulnerable to infection?  Key things to look out for / report. How do you arrange blood tests prior to treatment / how long before? 

  • Thank you that is helpful.  I appreciate any feedback given.  I am looking up the portacath and PICC differences now.