You may have questions – “Why me?” or “How did this happen?” – which oncologists cannot always answer. However, City of Hope medical oncologist Dr. Krushangi Patel says she wishes patients would ask a few more questions before starting treatment. According to her, it is very important to ask: “What is the goal of the treatment?”
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“Knowing whether the treatment aims to cure the cancer, control it, or just relieve symptoms helps understand every subsequent recommendation,” Dr. K. Patel tells Parade magazine.
It is also worth asking about possible side effects. “Understanding what might happen and when to contact the treatment team helps patients manage treatment more confidently and safely,” she adds.
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Still, Dr. K. Patel notes that patients often have several treatment options but do not realize it. “Cancer treatment often begins with a series of important decisions, so I encourage patients to take time to understand all the treatment options available to them,” she explains.
Asking one specific question before starting treatment can help form a broader picture of possibilities. Next, Dr. K. Patel reveals this question and advises how to evaluate the treatment team’s answer.
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