If you are diagnosed with melanoma, it’s important to work with a team to create a treatment plan and coordinate your care throughout your entire treatment.
Below are some questions to ask your doctor about melanoma.
Questions For Your Cancer Team
- What is your experience in treating people with melanoma?
- Who else will be on my treatment team?
- What other diagnostic tests or procedures will I need?
- What type of surgery will be done?
- Are cancer cells present anywhere else in my body?
- What are my treatment options?
Questions About Diagnosis
- What is the chance for recurrence?
- What is my prognosis?
- Will I develop cancer elsewhere in my body?
- Should I have genetic testing?
Questions About Your Treatment
- Am I eligible for a clinical trial?
- Do I need treatment right away?
- Where will I get my care?
- What are the treatment side effects?
- Long-term
- Short-term
- Are there any complications from treatment?
- Will treatment for my cancer affect my ability to have children?
- Will I need reconstructive surgery?
- What support services are available to me?
- Are there any complementary therapies I can do while receiving cancer treatment?
Questions About Second Opinions
You may have the option to get a second opinion about your diagnosis and treatment recommendation. Our specialists at the Abramson Cancer Center welcome patients who have received an initial diagnosis elsewhere.
For a second opinion, call 800-789-7366.
In addition to the questions above, here are some questions you may want to ask if you are getting a second opinion:
- What labs/test results will I need to get a second opinion?
- Can you help coordinate my care close to home?
- How will you work with my primary care physician and/or care team?