What other important issues should I talk about with my doctor?

ACS Answer

Other concerns you may want to discuss with your doctor include: 

• Who else gets information about me? Should anyone else – a spouse, a friend, another doctor, or other health organizations – also get information? Think about your options and tell your doctor what you want.   
• Will I be able to see my medical records? Since April 2003, federal rules (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) have required doctors, clinics, and hospitals to give patients access to their medical records. Seeing your records may help you become more involved in your health care.   
• Will the disease or the treatment keep me from working or caring for my family? Will I have any physical limitations? Again, ask your doctor if you want more information about your treatment. Ask if there is written information you can take away with you.   
• If you keep having low or hopeless feelings, mention this to your doctor. You may have clinical depression, a treatable illness that can occur along with cancer. For more information on depression, see "What can I do if I feel depressed about my situation?"   
• What is the best time to call if I have a question? Some doctors usually return calls at a special time. Expect your doctor to call you back, but remember that a quick response may not be possible if another patient is having a crisis. Ask if your doctor has an email address patients can use to ask questions. If you do not have an emergency, this can be an excellent way to get your questions answered. But be sure to ask if there is a cost for this service. Some doctors charge a fee to answer email questions.

Related Resources

Get more information on talking with your doctor.

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