What questions should I ask my oncologist about metastatic Lung Cancer
For informational purposes only
This answer was generated by AI grounded in NCCN guidelines and published medical literature. It is not medical advice. Always consult your oncologist or care team before making treatment decisions.
Questions to Ask Your Oncologist About Metastatic Lung Cancer
I'm glad you're preparing to have a thorough conversation with your care team. Asking good questions is one of the most important things you can do to understand your situation and participate in your treatment decisions.
According to the NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer, here are the key questions organized by topic:
About Your Cancer & Testing
- What type of lung cancer do I have? (This helps determine treatment options)
- What biomarker tests have been done on my tumor? (Biomarkers are biological clues that help doctors choose the best treatment for YOUR specific cancer)
- What were the results of my biomarker tests? (Ask specifically about driver mutations, PD-L1 status, and any other molecular testing)
- If biomarker testing wasn't complete, why not and what additional testing is recommended?
- Where has my cancer spread? (Understanding the extent helps guide treatment)
- Will you explain my pathology report and test results to me?
- Can I get copies of all my test results and pathology reports?
About Your Treatment Options
- What are my treatment options?
- What will happen if I do nothing?
- Are you suggesting options other than what NCCN recommends? If yes, why?
- How do my age, overall health, and other factors affect which treatments are best for me?
- Does any option offer a cure or long-term cancer control? (This helps you understand realistic goals)
- How long do I have to decide about treatment?
About What to Expect During Treatment
- How often will I need to come to the cancer clinic?
- How long will the treatment last?
- How will you know if treatment is working? (What tests will you use to monitor progress?)
- What are the chances of the cancer worsening or returning?
- Will my care require any special arrangements like housing or a certain diet?
- What may prevent me from getting the care I need?
About Side Effects
- What are the possible side effects of treatment?
- Which side effects are most common and how long do they usually last?
- Which side effects are serious or life-threatening?
- Are there any long-term or permanent side effects?
- What symptoms should I report right away, and who do I contact?
- What can I do to prevent or relieve the side effects?
- Do any medications worsen side effects?
- Will you stop or change treatment if there are serious side effects?
About Clinical Trials
- Do you recommend that I consider a clinical trial for treatment?
- How do I find clinical trials that I can participate in?
- What are the treatments used in the clinical trial?
- What are the risks and benefits of this treatment?
- How long will I be in the clinical trial?
- Will I be able to get other treatment if this doesn't work?
- Will the clinical trial cost me anything?
About Your Care Team
- What is your experience treating metastatic lung cancer?
- How many patients like me have you treated?
- Will you be consulting with other experts to discuss my care?
- Who will manage my day-to-day care?
- How can I get a second opinion?
About Follow-Up Care
- What follow-up care is needed after treatment?
- How often will I have follow-up appointments?
- Who should I contact with questions or concerns if the office is closed?
- How can I know if what I'm feeling is normal or if I need help?
Pro Tips for Your Appointment:
✅ Write down your questions beforehand so you don't forget them
✅ Bring someone with you to help listen and take notes
✅ Ask your doctor to explain anything you don't understand — there's no such thing as a stupid question
✅ Request written summaries of your treatment plan
✅ Ask if there's a social worker or patient navigator who can help you understand your options
Why These Questions Matter:
According to the NCCN Guidelines, metastatic lung cancer treatment varies significantly from person to person based on biomarker results, your overall health, and other individual factors. By asking these questions, you're helping your care team understand what matters most to you and ensuring you get personalized care.
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.
This is general information.
Upload your records for guidance specific to YOUR diagnosis — personalized to your biomarkers, stage, and treatment history.
Source Guidelines
NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (2026)Browse all NCCN Guidelines for Patients →Get guidance specific to your case
This answer covers general information. For guidance based on YOUR records, biomarkers, and treatment history:
Related Questions
What are the latest chemotherapy treatments for lung cancer in 2026
I appreciate your question about current treatment options. Let me explain what the latest evidence shows about chemotherapy for lung cancer, based on
What specific chemotherapy drugs are used for lung cancer and how do they work
I'm glad you're learning about treatment options. Let me explain the chemotherapy drugs commonly used for lung cancer and their mechanisms of action.
What are the common chemotherapy drugs and treatments for lung cancer
I'm glad you're learning about lung cancer treatment options. Let me explain the chemotherapy drugs and approaches that are commonly used, based on cu