Questions to take to your hospital appointments
Every advanced bowel cancer patient is different and not all treatments will be suitable for everyone. It is important that you understand and agree with the treatment suggested for you and any possible side effects.
You might like to take a list of questions to your hospital appointment and a pen with notepad to help you understand your diagnosis and so you can write down the answers. Some people find it useful to take someone with them to their medical appointments to take notes and remind them what was discussed.
Questions you may wish to ask:
- Where is my bowel cancer?
- What are my treatment choices?
- Are there any other treatments available at another hospital?
- Does this treatment aim to help me live longer or control my symptoms?
- How much longer am I likely to live for, if I have treatment?
- What are the side effects?
- When will I start to feel the benefits of the treatment?
- Are there any clinical trials suitable for me?
- What emotional support is available?
- Will I need extra help at home after treatment?
- What support or information is there for my family or children?
- What financial support is available?
It might help to get in contact with other people who also have advanced bowel cancer. Click here to get support from our online community.