Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Treating Metastatic Breast Cancer

You likely have many questions right now. If possible, it’s best to organize your thoughts before your medical appointment. Here are some good questions to ask.

But first one very important tip: If possible, please bring someone with you to your appointment. You will likely be hearing a lot of new information. A second set of ears and someone to take notes will be very helpful. If you don’t have someone to go with you, please contact Forge’s Client Services Coordinator, Janet Dees, at (205) 990-5367 or [email protected]. She may be able to match you with a peer match who has metastatic breast cancer, too, and can go with you to your appointment.

 

  • How did you determine the hormone-receptor status and HER2 status of the cancer?
  • Do I need a biopsy to find out whether the hormone-receptor or HER2 status has changed?
  • Why are you recommending a particular treatment?
  • What are the benefits of each possible treatment? What are the side effects?
  • How will each treatment affect my quality of life?
  • How will I know the treatment is working?
  • What kinds of tests will I have?
  • What happens if a treatment stops working?
  • How do I know when to switch treatments?
  • What happens if I decide to not have a treatment?
  • Are there clinical trials that you think would be beneficial for me?

If you have any questions or concerns, contact Forge’s Client Services Coordinator, Janet Dees, at (205) 990-5367 or [email protected]. Si hablas español y quieres más información, por favor contacta a Ana Emaldi, al (205) 990-5375 O al [email protected].