What should I ask my oncologist after a new diagnosis
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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.
Sources & medical oversight
- Developed under the medical oversight of OpenCancer’s physician-scientist team (Chris Apfel, MD/PhD/MBA, CMO · Kaumudi Bhawe, PhD, CSO).
- Last updated July 9, 2026. Informational only — not a substitute for your oncology team.
Questions to Ask Your Oncologist After a New Diagnosis
Here are the key questions that will help you understand your situation and treatment options:
About Your Diagnosis
- "What type of cancer do I have, and what stage is it?"
- "What's driving my tumor growth?" (This reflects on what testing has been done)
- "What are the consequences of this diagnosis for my family members?"
About Testing
- "What additional tests should I get to identify new treatment options and personalize my care?"
- "Can I get a comprehensive genomic profile of my tumor?"
- "Is a liquid biopsy an option for me?"
- "Can I get a copy of my test report?"
About Treatment Options
- "Are there alternative treatment options besides the standard treatment you're recommending?"
- "Can I get a second opinion on my diagnosis and treatment plan?"
- "Under what circumstances will you change treatment if current options aren't effective?"
- "Should I consider clinical trials?"
About Your Care Team
- "If you feel you can't help me, will you recommend other places with more advanced capabilities?"
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.
According to Cancer Patient Lab's "Self-Advocacy in the Era of Precision Medicine" webinar with Rome Madison, these questions help ensure you're a partner in your care and aware of all available options.
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