What are good questions to ask?

Ann360

I got my TN pathology report back today and have an appointment for initial consultation with a medical oncologist on Monday.  

 I want to go in w/ a list of good questions.

 So far, I know that I'm triple negative, the tumor was 1.5 cm and had clear margins, and the sentinel node was clear.  It was Stage 1B.  Surgeon is emphatic that I'll need radiation and probably chemo.  

 How do you tell an oncologist you want a consultation with another expert?  Do the two then work together?  Does the original guy recommend the expert, or do I go in w/ a person in mind (and how do I find that person)?

Thanks for any pointers you can give me.  I'm swamped.

Ann 

Moderators

Hi Ann360 and welcome to Breastcancer.org,

While you wait for the ever-helpful advice from the other members here, you may be interested in checking out the main Breastcancer.org site's page on Your Diagnosis: Questions to Ask Your Doctor.

Also, there's some great advice in the Getting a Second Opinion section on how to go about finding another doctor to weigh in.

Hope this helps!

--The Mods

KELL414240

Hi Ann,

 Doctors really aren't offended if you want to get a second opinion. My oncologist showed me what the oncology guidelines for my particular cancer. He did not press me either way. He presented all the information. Do make a list and even if it seems a silly question, ask it. I think if I recall correctly, I had four pages of questions. Ask if you see the doc or if you see a nurse pract. Ask what the office hours are and when the first and last appt of the day can be? Ask how long? Ask if there are any clinical trials to participate in? Ask to see the chemo suite.

 I am sure more of these ladies who are so knowledgeable will give you more great advice.

Hugs to you as I know it's a tough time!!!