If You Are Having Radiation Therapy

Questions for the doctor:

• What is the goal of this treatment?

• How will the radiation be given? Internal or external radiation?

• Will I need chemotherapy or surgery also?

• In what order will my treatments be given?

• How many treatments will I get? Over what period of time?

• Is there a way to speed up my treatments? Is there a faster treatment option?

• When will the treatment begin? When will it end?

• How will I feel during radiation therapy?

• Will I be able to carry on my normal activities?

• What are my restrictions?

• Can I drive myself to treatments or do I need someone to bring me?

• What are the possible short-term and long-term side effects? What are some serious side effects I should report to the doctor? 

• How long will it take me to recover from the side effects of treatment?

• What are the chances treatment will be effective? How will we know if it's working?

• Will I need other treatments as well? Are there any other treatment options? 

• What can I do to prepare for treatment and to take care of myself during therapy?

• Are there any clinical trials that I am eligible for?

• Does my insurance cover the treatments? Do I have a copay?

• Can I be near children or pets after my procedure? 

• Are there other types of radiation therapy that may work with my cancer? 

• Does this center offer the latest technology or techniques for treatment? 

• Are you and your team comfortable treating my kind of cancer?  Have you seen this before?