Questions to Ask After a Cancer Diagnosis
A physician's own checklist of the questions that change a treatment plan — covering pathology, staging, treatment goals, second opinions, and the practical logistics most people forget to ask.
Physician video coming soon
We're producing this video with our physicians. Read the full guide below — it mirrors the script.
Why this video matters
The first oncology visit can feel like a blur. Patients who walk in with the right questions leave with a real plan — not just a prescription.
Who this is for:
- Anyone within 30 days of a new diagnosis
- Family members coming to the first oncology visit
- Patients getting ready for a second opinion
What you'll learn
Pathology & staging
What exact subtype is this? What stage? What biomarkers were tested, and which are still pending?
Treatment goals
Is the goal cure, long-term control, or comfort? Different goals justify very different plans.
The full menu of options
Surgery, radiation, systemic therapy, clinical trials, watchful waiting — which are on the table and why?
Logistics that matter
How long, how often, where, how much will my insurance cover, who do I call after hours?
Video script outline
This is the outline our physician follows. Use it as a transcript-style reference while reading.
1. Why the right questions matter
0:00 – 0:45- Most patients only ask 2–3 questions in the first visit
- The visits where great plans are built
2. Questions about the cancer itself
0:45 – 2:00- Exact diagnosis
- Stage
- Biomarkers
- Pathology second-read
3. Questions about treatment
2:00 – 3:15- Goal
- Options
- Sequence
- Clinical trials
4. Questions about your life
3:15 – 4:15- Side effects
- Work
- Family planning / fertility
- Mental health support
5. Permission to get a second opinion
4:15 – 5:00- It's expected, not offensive
- How to request your records
Common questions
- Is it rude to get a second opinion?
- Absolutely not. Most oncologists, including ours, welcome second opinions and routinely give them.
- Can I record the visit?
- Yes — ask first, but recording a visit on your phone is one of the most useful things you can do.