Your Guide to the Oncology Visit

💬 Preparing to Meet Your Doctor

A doctor’s appointment - especially when cancer is involved - can feel overwhelming. You might forget what you wanted to ask or struggle to keep track of all the information. That’s completely normal.

This guide is here to help you feel a little more in control. It includes key questions you can ask, space for your own, and gentle reminders that you don’t have to do it all alone.

❓Top Questions to Consider Asking

You don’t need to ask everything at once. Pick the ones that feel most important right now - or use them as a starting point for your own.

🧾 About Your Diagnosis

• Can you explain my diagnosis in simpler terms?

• What stage is the cancer, and what does that mean for me?

• Has the cancer spread beyond its original site?

💡 About Treatment Options

• What are my treatment choices, and why do you recommend this one?

• What is the goal of this treatment – cure, control, or relief?

• How long will treatment last, and how will it affect my daily life?

🌱 Side Effects & Daily Life

• What side effects can I expect, and how can I manage them?

• Can I continue working or caring for my family?

• Will treatment affect my fertility or future health?

🤝 Support & Next Steps

• Are there support services I can access, like counseling or nutrition advice?

• Can I get a second opinion?

• Who should I contact if I have concerns between appointments?

📝 Write Your Own Questions

No one knows your body or concerns better than you. Before your visit, take a moment to ask yourself:

"What do I need to understand, feel reassured about, or make a decision on?"

Write it down. Even one or two personal questions can help you feel more prepared.

🧍‍♀️ During the Appointment: Take Your Time

You are allowed to ask for things to be repeated, explained simply, or written down. It’s okay to pause and say:

“I need a moment to think about that.”

Consider bringing someone with you: a friend, sibling, or partner. They can help listen, take notes, and offer support.

📓 Notes from the Appointment

Whether it's in your phone or on paper, try to write down the main points:

• What did the doctor explain?

• What decisions were made?

• What’s happening next?

We’ve also created a one-page printable version of this guide to bring with you.

👉 Just write us an email asking for “Doctor visit guide” and we will send you the file

✨ YOU ARE NOT ALONE

At Cancer Care UAE, we understand that navigating the cancer journey can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here with resources, community, and professionals ready to support you every step of the way. If you need someone to talk to, want help preparing for your consultation, or have questions about anything in this guide, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Asking questions is not a sign of doubt - it’s a sign of care. For your body, your journey, and your peace of mind. Your voice matters 💛