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Questions to Ask Your Doctor When Treatment Ends

Dunamis

Brain Tumor Survivor Shares Coping Tips

Dunamis had four surgeries to remove brain tumors—but she overcame each hurdle with hope and strength.

As a patient, you want to keep a record of your care. Here are some questions to ask your health care provider once your treatment ends so you know what to expect. 

  • What treatments and drugs have I been given to treat my brain or spine tumor? And how long did I receive each treatment? 
  • What were my side effects from treatments? 
  • Will I have long-term effects, late effects, or permeant disability from my treatment?  
  • Will I need rehabilitation services, such as speech therapy or physical therapy?  
  • What type of doctor (neuro-oncologist, medical oncologist, neurosurgeon, primary care provider, etc.) should I see for my follow-up care? And can you recommend one?
  • How often should I have checkups and brain or spine scans? 
  • What other follow-up tests should I have? 
  • How often will I need these tests? 
  • What are the chances my tumor will recur? 
  • What symptoms should I watch for? 
  • If I develop any of these symptoms, whom should I call? 
  • What should I do to maintain my general health and well-being? 
  • Do you offer diet and exercise plans? 
  • What recommendations do you have regarding my ability to work and drive? 
  • Are there counselors, social workers, or support groups that you can recommend for me? 

We encourage you to print these questions and bring them with you to your appointment.

  • Updated:

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