Questions to Ask Your Oncologist: A Guide for Newly Diagnosed Patients

A cancer diagnosis can feel like being dropped into uncharted territory—overwhelming, emotional, and filled with questions you didn’t even know to ask. One thing that can make this process easier? Asking the right questions. 

Your oncologist isn’t just your doctor—they’re your guide through this journey. Each appointment is a chance to better understand your diagnosis, explore your options, and actively shape your care plan. To make the most of these conversations, here’s a guide to the most important questions to ask your oncologist, whether it’s your first visit or a follow-up.

What Does an Oncologist Do?

Before diving into questions, it’s helpful to understand what an oncologist does. Think of your oncologist as the leader of your cancer care team—the person guiding your treatment and answering your concerns along the way.

You may meet one or more types of oncologists:

• Medical oncologists handle treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies.
• Radiation oncologists focus on using radiation therapy to treat cancer.
• Surgical oncologists specialize in removing tumors and cancerous tissue.

Often, these specialists work together as a team, alongside dietitians, social workers, and therapists, to provide comprehensive care. Knowing their roles can give you a clearer picture of who’s supporting you.The Most Important Questions to Ask Your OncologistWherever you are in your cancer journey, asking the right questions is one of the best ways to stay informed and empowered. Here are a few key questions to include in your conversations:

• What type of cancer do I have?
  Cancer isn’t the same for everyone—even in the same part of the body. Knowing your exact type and subtype ensures you fully understand your diagnosis.
• What stage is my cancer, and where is it located?
  The stage explains how far your cancer has spread and impacts your treatment options. Understanding the stage and location of your cancer provides a clearer picture of your condition and next steps.
• What are my treatment options, and what are the pros and cons of each?
  From chemotherapy and radiation to surgery and immunotherapy, cancer treatment plans are highly personalized. Ask about the benefits, risks, and how each option might affect your day-to-day life.
• What are the goals of my treatment?
  Is the focus to cure the cancer, manage symptoms, or improve quality of life? This question helps align your expectations with your doctor’s goals.
• How can I prepare for treatment?
  Whether it’s planning time off work, adjusting your diet, or seeking emotional support, your oncologist can guide you on how to get ready for what lies ahead.

Questions to Ask Your Oncologist About Treatment

‍When your oncologist recommends a specific treatment, it’s important to dig deeper into the details. Here are some key questions to ask about your treatment plan:

• Are there additional tests I’ll need before starting treatment?
• How will this treatment affect my daily life, including work or family responsibilities?
• What are the most common side effects, and how can I manage them?
• How long will the treatment last, and what should I expect during recovery?

These conversations can help you better understand what’s ahead and feel prepared to navigate potential challenges.Questions to Ask During Your First VisitYour first visit with your oncologist sets the tone for your care plan. Make the most of this meeting by asking questions that will help you build a strong foundation:

• Who will be on my cancer care team?
  Your care team may include oncologists, nurses, surgeons, dietitians, and social workers. Knowing who to contact for specific concerns makes communication easier.
• Should I get a second opinion?
  It’s perfectly okay to ask for a second opinion—it’s your health, after all. A second opinion can provide reassurance or present new treatment options you may not have considered.
• Are there clinical trials available for my type of cancer?
  Clinical trials might give you access to cutting-edge treatments that aren’t yet widely available. If this hasn’t been brought up, don’t hesitate to ask.

Questions to Ask Your Oncologist Before Chemotherapy

‍If chemotherapy is part of your treatment plan, it’s important to ask specific questions to prepare yourself:

• What are the goals of chemotherapy for my cancer?
  Is it to shrink the tumor, prevent recurrence, or manage symptoms? Knowing this can help you understand the bigger picture.
• How will the chemotherapy be administered?
  Some chemotherapy treatments are given via infusion, while others might come in pill form.
• What are the most common side effects, and what can I do to manage them?
  From nausea to fatigue, side effects vary from person to person. Your oncologist can provide strategies to help minimize discomfort.
• How long will each session take, and how many treatments will I need?
  Understanding the timeline of your treatment will help you plan ahead and manage your schedule.

Long-Term Care Questions

‍Even after your treatment ends, follow-up care is essential. Be sure to ask:

• What follow-up care will I need?
  This might include scans, blood tests, or check-ups to monitor for recurrence.
• What lifestyle changes can help prevent recurrence?
  Simple changes, like adopting a healthy diet or staying active, can make a big difference in your overall health.
• Are there support groups or counseling services available?
  Emotional recovery is just as important as physical recovery. Support groups or one-on-one counseling can be a lifeline during this time.

Get the Support You Need with CanCare

‍Asking the right questions is an empowering way to take control of your cancer care. But sometimes, what you really need is someone who understands—someone who’s been there.CanCare connects you with trained volunteers who have faced cancer themselves. They know the value of asking thoughtful questions, understanding treatment options, and finding hope in the process. Whether you’re looking for one-on-one support, group programs, or just someone who “gets it,” CanCare is there to help.Having both the guidance of your oncologist and the support of a community like CanCare can make your cancer journey feel less overwhelming—and remind you that you’re never alone.