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Talking With Your Doctor

Taking oral chemotherapy at your home requires that you be a more active member of your healthcare team. Your doctor will evaluate your potential as an oral chemotherapy patient from the very first conversation about this type of treatment. Your doctor needs to know that you listen carefully to instructions, that you will be able to stay on your medication schedule, and that you will be able to promptly report back on how you are feeling during treatment.

Is it polite to ask my doctor questions about my treatment?

Yes. You should feel comfortable asking questions as well as answering them. It's important to ask your doctor about treatment options. Once you are on oral chemotherapy, you will have specific communication requirements. You will be in regular contact with your healthcare team. You will be giving updates on side effects. Your reports will help your doctor monitor your treatment and adjust your dosage and medication schedule. It is important that you understand and follow all instructions. With oral chemotherapy, you play a more active role in your treatment than with other forms of chemotherapy.

Having an open, honest dialogue with your doctor about your treatment options can make a difference. Learn more about the importance of good communication, which starts from the very first conversation.

What are some of the questions my doctor will ask to find out if oral chemotherapy is right for me?

If a chemotherapy drug is available in oral form for your cancer, your doctor will want to find out whether you are able to stay on the treatment plan. Will you be able to follow instructions, make regular reports to members of your healthcare team about the side effects, and keep to the treatment regimen? The questions you ask your doctor can help show that you understand what is involved in this type of treatment and that you are responsible enough to stick to the treatment program.

How do I start the conversation with my doctor?

Asking questions as well as answering them is a good way to start an open, honest conversation about oral chemotherapy with your doctor. Asking “Is there an oral treatment for my cancer?” may be a good way to start. Another question like “Is oral chemotherapy right for me?” may prompt your doctor to explain the kinds of cancers oral chemotherapy can treat and the kinds of patients who may be eligible for it.

Download a more-detailed list of questions to ask you doctor.

How should I prepare for the conversation?

Writing down your questions in advance can help you to remember all of them during your doctor's visit. It also can help to prioritize what you ask to make sure the most important ones get answered first. Think of your conversation about treatment options as your first chance to take an active role on your healthcare team. Show you are responsible by learning as much as you can in your discussions with your doctor, and show that you are willing and able to take on added responsibility.

Learn how you can prepare for your doctor's visit.