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support & ideas TREATMENT DECISIONS: How to Choose? Before you & your doctor make a decision on a treatment course, it is important for you to understand why one treatment is recommended over any other. Look at the possible benefits, risks, side effects, & impact on your quality of life & match this information with your goals, needs, & values. Many have found it extremely useful to write out their questions & to take a notebook to appointments, asking & then writing answers to ALL questions. WHENEVER POSSIBLE, it is helpful for someone with a clear mind to come along on these appointments, to be a 2^nd set of ears and eyes and to be sure all questions are asked and answered; this person can take notes, as well. You might ask some or all of these Questions: What is the goal of this treatment? To cure, to prolong life, or to relieve symptoms? What are the specific benefits we are hoping will happen? Will further testing be necessary? How will getting this treatment affect my quality of life? How will this treatment affect my length of life? If I refuse this treatment, what will happen & how will you continue to help me? What are my other options for treatment or care? What do you think is the best treatment for me & why? Is this the standard treatment for my disease? If it is experimental, what requirement do I need to fulfill to receive it? What are the side effects & recovery time for this treatment? Are the side effects permanent or temporary? Is there a way to prevent or relieve these side effects? How & when will I know if this treatment is working? How much will the treatment cost & is it covered under my insurance? If I were your family member, what would you recommend & why? - - VERY IMPORTANT & SENSIBLE QUESTION - - How soon do I need to make a decision & why? Where can I get further information about this treatment? Can I talk with someone who has been through it? ***If you have the experience of a family member or friend having this disease &/or this treatment, tell the doctor about that experience, including any concerns or fears you have. Find out if that person’s experience was the “norm” or not, & why.*** Based on a list courtesy of Carondelet Hosp. Services

dena@cancerguidejourney.com dena ward clayton, m.a., adtr 301 663-0373 extension 8 center of the 4 winds studio frederick, maryland, usa