Useful questions
This question checklist may be a good starting point for you as you think about the questions you want to ask your doctor. If your doctor gives you answers that you don’t understand, it is okay to ask for clarification.
- Are there other treatments available that might cure the cancer?
- Will I receive treatment for the cancer if I have palliative care?
- Are there any clinical trials I could join?
- Who will be a part of my palliative care team?
- Who will coordinate my care?
- Do I have to pay for any palliative care services?
- Where will I receive palliative care?
- If I’m at home, what kind of help will be available?
- Can my family or carers access respite care or other assistance?
- Can I call the palliative care team at any time?
- Will the palliative care team talk to my GP and other specialists about my care?
- How long will I need palliative care for? What is my prognosis?
- What if my condition unexpectedly improves?
- What financial and practical assistance is available?
- Can you help me talk to my family about what is happening?
- Are there any complementary therapies that might help?
- How can I get a second opinion about my need for palliative care?
For more suggestions, visit Palliative Care Australia.
This information was last reviewed in April 2017
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