Navigating an oncology appointment: it’s something that everyone hopes they’ll never have to do, whether it’s for themselves or for a family member. Unfortunately, this becomes a reality for around 2 million people each year. While there is no single right way to approach a cancer diagnosis or an oncology appointment, there are some things that can help. Below, you’ll find some helpful tips on how to successfully navigate oncology appointments. 

Bring someone with you 

If there is one tip that is most important, it would be to bring someone with you to your oncology appointments. These appointments can be scary and overwhelming, and it’s incredibly helpful to have someone with you who can be an extra set of ears, ask questions on your behalf, and advocate for you. This person will likely also serve as immense comfort to you. If you don’t have a loved one to come to the appointment with you, you may be able to request a medical companion or advocate to be at your appointment. Be sure to ask about this in advance as someone may not be available on demand. 

Bring the necessities

Your oncologist will need access to your medical records if they don’t already have access. You can make sure those records are sent electronically and/or bring physical copies. Make sure this includes any imaging, test results, and medications you currently take. If you take any over-the-counter medications or supplements, be sure to bring a list of those as well. You’ll also want to bring your identification, insurance card, and payment. 

It’s likely you already have some questions before the appointment even begins. As you think of questions in the days leading up to the appointment, write them down. This helps ensure you don’t forget to ask at your appointment. 

Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water and a snack, too. Between arriving early, waiting for the provider, and completing the appointment itself, you may be at the hospital or clinic for a long time. It’s helpful to bring a drink, snack, and any comfort items you may want at your appointment. 

Arrive early 

Particularly for your first appointment, you want to make sure you arrive early. Running late can pile on additional stress to a time that is already very difficult. If this is your first time having an appointment in the building, you want to give yourself time to navigate traffic, find a place to park, find the clinic, and check in. At your first appointment, you may be asked to provide identification and insurance information, and you may need to fill out paperwork. Because of all of this, it’s a good idea to arrive at least 30 minutes early for your first appointment. 

Ask questions 

For your healthcare provider, this is just part of daily life. For you, everything is new. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and to ask your provider to slow down or explain something more simply if you’re not understanding. Some questions you might consider asking include: 

• Can this type of cancer be cured? 
• What stage is the cancer? 
• Do I have to do any more testing?
• What treatment options are available? 
• Are there any clinical trials I can join?
• Where can I receive treatment? 
• What are the common side effects of treatment? 
• Is there anything I should avoid eating or any activities I should avoid doing during treatment? 
• Are other people in my family at higher risk for this type of cancer?
• Are there any support groups in the area? 
• Is there any financial assistance available? 
• What are the next steps? 
• How can I contact you later if I have questions? 

Take notes

This might be a task that you delegate to your loved one who accompanies you to the appointment. Taking notes can help you remember everything your provider said, which is important because it might be hard to remember everything, especially if you’re feeling anxious and overwhelmed. Later, you might look back at your notes and realize that you have follow-up questions you need to ask your provider. 

Support for cancer patients 

Finding support when you have cancer can help improve your well-being. There are many physical and virtual cancer support groups that can help support you and connect you with others going through the same thing. 

There are also many programs that offer financial assistance for cancer patients. Other ways to find financial assistance include asking friends and family for help and applying for any financial assistance programs through your hospital system. 

Depending on what caused your cancer, you may want to look into legal help as well if you’re interested in filing a lawsuit. For example, many people who have developed cancer after using Roundup weedkiller have filed a lawsuit against the manufacturer. 

Sometimes, the treatments for cancer unfortunately lead to further illness or injury as well. In these cases, cancer patients have sought compensation via legal means. For example, if you were injured from a Biozorb implant during breast cancer treatment, you may be eligible to join a lawsuit.