Questions to Ask During Your Radiation Oncology Consultation

A radiation oncologist is a doctor who prescribes radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer, benign tumors, and other conditions. The following is a list of questions that are usually addressed before starting treatment. Use this list to take notes and ask any questions that might not be discussed. It can be helpful to bring someone to your appointments or have someone call in to help you take notes.

Before Treatment

• Will I have treatment every day?
• How long will treatment take each day?
• How many weeks of treatment will I have?
• Will I be able to take a vacation right after treatment?
• What types of side effects will I have during treatment?
• What type of long-term side effects will I have?
• Are there any foods I should avoid while under treatment?
• Will I be able to continue with my normal daily activities?
• Who will give me my radiation treatment every day?
• How often will I see you during my course of treatment?
• What happens if the machine breaks or I am sick and can’t get my treatment?
• What time of day will I have my treatment?
• Will I be able to work during my treatment?
• Will I be able to drive myself to treatment every day?

After Treatment

• What if my treatment didn’t work?
• How do we know if my treatment worked?
• When will my treatment side effects go away?
• How often will I see you when I am done with treatment?
• Will I need imaging tests or lab work after treatment?
• Will I receive a survivorship care plan?

If you have further questions or concerns after any of your appointments, make sure to contact your provider’s office.