TIPS FOR COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR DOCTOR, NURSE, OR HEALTH CARE TEAM

For many people, talking with their doctor is difficult. When the diagnosis is as serious as cancer, it may be even more difficult for some. Fortunately, several things can be done to make that communication easier and more effective.

As a patient, it is important to remember that you are a consumer of healthcare. Just as you would not make an expensive purchase without asking questions, neither should you be hesitant to ask questions about your doctor or your treatment. You may find it helpful to write out questions before you meet with your doctor. Tape recording information might also be helpful. Writing down the answers you get will help you remember your doctor’s responses and instructions. Consider having a friend or family member accompany you to your health care appointments.

Never be afraid to ask questions or have the doctor repeat or clarify a question. There are no “dumb” questions. Remember there is no one “right” treatment for everyone. New treatments are available today that were not even imagined a few years ago. Medical researchers continue to find better ways to treat breast cancer. You want to find the treatment that is right for you.

Research has found that women need different information at different times in their treatment. You might not be able to grasp everything all at once. Don’t hesitate to repeat your questions. A question might lead to another question. You might need numerous repetitions to understand. When possible, use “I” statements. For example, the phrase, “I don’t understand…” is much more effective than “You’re being unclear about that…” Don’t be afraid to be assertive.

If you feel that your doctor cannot give you the time you need, ask him or her if you could schedule another time when you could discuss your questions in more detail, or if you should direct your questions to someone else. You might want to discuss some of your questions with the oncology nurse specialist or nurse, as they may be able to give you more time.

The following list of questions is provided to assist you in obtaining the information you might want from your doctor. Obviously, this list is quite long. These questions are provided for many different women, with many different types of breast cancer. Some of these questions will pertain to you and others will not. Please understand that the list is long, so that possible questions of all women might be addressed.

It is recommended that you read the list of questions before your doctor’s appointment. You might even want to take this list of questions with you. Bring along a notebook to write down the physician’s answers to your questions. You might want to photocopy the enclosed chart. Questions that you want to ask your doctor could be written in the section entitled “MY QUESTIONS.” You might want to rewrite the question, so that it is phrased in your own words. List the question number in the allotted spot. Leave space for your doctor’s answers. A sample is provided with questions you might ask your radiation oncologist.

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