Questions to Ask When Treatment Ends

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

  • What physical problems will I likely experience as a result of my ependymoma treatments?
  • What can I do to relieve the pain and other problems after ependymoma treatment?
  • Am I at greater risk for developing other cancers as a result of my illness or ependymoma treatment?
  • How likely is my ependymoma to return and is there anything I can do to prevent or delay recurrence?
  • What treatments and drugs have I been given to treat my brain or spine tumor? And how long did I receive each treatment?
  • What side effects occurred from treatments?
  • What are the common long-term and late effects of the treatment I received?
  • Which type of doctor should I see for my follow-up care?
  • Can you recommend the doctor(s) I should see for my follow-up care?
  • How often should I have routine visits and brain or spine scans?
  • What other follow-up tests should I have?
  • How often will I need these tests?
  • What symptoms should I watch for?
  • If I develop any of these symptoms, who should I call?
  • What should I do to maintain my health and well-being?
  • Do you offer diet and exercise plans?
  • What recommendations do you have for me regarding my ability to work and drive?
  • Are there counselors, social workers or support groups that you can recommend for me?
  • Do I need genetic counseling to determine if my ependymoma is hereditary so I can alert my family and to find out if I am at increased risk for other cancers?

If you have any questions about planning for post-treatment please contact us.

Source: PinnacleCare. Questions to Ask Your Doctor When Treatment Ends was originally published by the National Cancer Institute.

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