Guiding Questions

When you learn you have a rare brain or spine tumor, you may need help understanding what information is important to know to make care and treatment decisions. Our guiding questions can help prepare you for your appointments with your doctor or health care team so you can make informed decisions.

Use the questions below to guide you through your brain or spine tumor journey. You should use the questions that fit your situation and add your own questions. It can help to then take your list of questions and a loved one with you to your appointments.

Questions to Ask Your Neurosurgeon
Your neurosurgeon can help you decide if surgery is the best treatment option for you, prepare for surgery, and make sure you’re receiving the best possible care.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Their Experience
Different doctors have different experiences. These questions can help you decide if a doctor is the right one for you.
Questions to Ask about Your Diagnosis
Guiding questions for brain and spine tumor patients to ask their doctor about their diagnosis.

Questions to Ask about Your Treatment
Your doctor can help you understand your options and choose a treatment.
Questions to Ask about Clinical Trials
Your doctor can help you determine if a clinical trial is right for you.
Questions to Ask if You Have a Recurrence
If you have a recurrence, your neuro-oncologist or neurosurgeon can help you determine the best treatment.
Questions to Ask When Treatment Ends
Your doctor can help you understand what to expect once your treatment finishes.
Questions to Ask about Support
Your medical team can help you better understand your overall care, including supportive care and coping resources.