Questions to ask your Doctor
Questions to ask your Doctor
You may find it helpful to ask your doctor some of the questions below to better understand your cancer and clinical trial options.
TIPS ON GOING TO YOUR APPOINTMENTS
Make a list of any questions or concerns you have before your appointment and take it with you.
Take a trusted friend or family member with you for support and to help remember the information.
Ask your oncologist/specialist doctor or nurse to explain anything that is unclear.
Take notes during the appointment or ask if you can record it so you can listen again later.
If you are well enough, try to prepare to do something enjoyable after the appointment with a loved one or friend. This may help you process the information, but it also creates a positive lasting memory among some difficult memories of having cancer and its treatment.
About my cancer
What type of ovarian cancer do I have?
What testing have I had on my cancer so far, and what were the results?
For example, have I had comprehensive genetic profiling done which may give me access to a clinical trial? Genetic profiling is sometimes linked to personalised medicine [LINK https://www.ovariancancer.net.au/personalised-medicine-and-targetted-treatment].
About Clinical Trials
What is a clinical trial, and how could it benefit me?
Finding a Clinical Trial for me
Are there any clinical trials available for ovarian cancer right now that might be suitable for me?
This can include trials that test different medical/drug treatments, lifestyle interventions like exercise/nutrition, as well as possible international trials.
What are other ways to find clinical trials that might be suitable for me?
Questions to ask about a specific trial
What are the possible benefits of this clinical trial?
What are the risks or side effects of this clinical trial?
Knowing the risks and benefits helps you make an informed decision about taking part in a trial.
How long does the clinical trial last?
This question helps you understand the commitment and timeline and what you feel you can manage.
Will I still be able to receive other my regular treatments if I join this trial?
Some trials will be added to your current treatment plan, whilst other trials may be instead of your current treatment. It is important to talk about whether your existing care will change with your treating team.
Will my participation in this trial cost me any money?
Most trials will not cost you anything, but you need to know about any costs such as travel, accommodation and time.
How do I know if I am eligible for this clinical trial?
If I join the trial, will I be able to leave the trial early if I need to?. It’s important to know you have the option to leave the trial at any point if it’s not right for you.
Will I receive support during the trial, like from a nurse, doctor or counsellor?
Can I still get care from my current doctor while I am on the trial?
You may want to continue seeing your regular doctor while also being part of the trial, so this is a good question to ask. You will usually continue to see your own doctor for follow up while on a trial.
What happens if I have side effects during the trial?
You should know what to expect and how any side effects might be handled, as well as any costs involved in treating side effects.
How often will I be monitored while on a clinical trial?
You need to know how often and in what ways you will be checked on while in the trial. This may involve a time cost that could affect your life and family/work commitments.
