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Questions to Ask

  1. Exactly what type of Head and Neck Cancer do I have? Where is it located?

  2. Why did I get this cancer?

  3. What stage is the cancer?

  4. What are my treatment options? Which treatment do you recommend for me and why?

  5. Have you discussed my case at a Multidisciplinary Team meeting and what were the recommendations?

  6. Who will be part of the cancer care team, and what does each person do? Should I see another specialist before treatment, such as a radiation oncologist, medical oncologist, plastic surgeon, dentist, dietician or speech pathologist?

  7. What are the possible side effects of treatment in the short- and long-term? How can they be prevented or managed?

  8. Will the treatment affect my ability to eat, swallow, or speak? Will I need a feeding tube?

  9. What will happen if I don't have any treatment?

  10. How much will the treatment and/or operation cost? Will Medicare or my health insurance cover it?

  11. What follow-up tests will I need? How often will they be?

  12. Am I suitable for any clinical trials?

  13. What lifestyle changes (diet, exercise) do you recommend I make?

  14. Who can I call if I have any problems or questions?

  15. Where can I find emotional support for me and my family? Is there a support group or psychologist you can recommend?

  16. If I wanted to get a second opinion, can you provide all my medical details? Do you mind if I get a second opinion?

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