Your Cancer Care Checklist

A simple, evidence-based guide to help you stay informed, prepared, and empowered

For patients at ANY stage of their cancer journey

Your Progress

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Why This Checklist Matters

Reduces overwhelm by breaking down complex medical decisions into manageable steps

Increases confidence with structured guidance through your cancer journey

Ensures nothing is missed from diagnosis through treatment and recovery

Understanding Your Diagnosis

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Get a copy of your pathology report

Confirm cancer type (e.g., breast, lung, ovarian)

Confirm stage (I–IV)

Confirm grade

Identify biomarkers or genetic markers (e.g., BRCA, EGFR, KRAS, HER2)

Ask if additional testing is needed

Building Your Care Team

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Identify your primary oncologist

Identify relevant specialists (e.g., surgical, medical, radiation)

Consider a second opinion (local or global)

Ask whether a multidisciplinary review is recommended

Verify your cancer center's experience with your cancer type

Treatment Options Checklist

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Discuss standard treatments (chemo, radiation, surgery)

Review targeted therapies

Ask about immunotherapy

Discuss hormonal therapies

Ask about clinical trial availability

Understand side effects and expected outcomes

Clarify treatment timeline

Confirm if genetic/biomarker tests are required before treatment

Clinical Trial Readiness

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Search active clinical trials for your cancer

Check biomarker-specific trials

Identify location, eligibility, and stage requirements

Prepare your medical history for screening

Ask your oncologist about referral options

Supportive Care Checklist

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Establish pain management plan

Arrange nutrition support

Connect with mental health resources

Set up caregiver support

Join local and online support groups

Schedule financial counseling & review insurance benefits

Organizing Your Medical Records

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Pathology reports

Imaging (PET, CT, MRI)

Bloodwork & tumor markers

Clinical notes

Treatment summaries

Genetic reports

Insurance approvals

Essential Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Evidence-based questions patients often forget

What are all possible treatment paths for my diagnosis?

Is my cancer operable?

What is the goal of treatment — cure, control, or comfort?

What biomarkers were tested?

Should I get a second opinion?

Are clinical trials appropriate for me now or later?

What are the most common side effects of the recommended treatment?

How will this treatment affect my quality of life?

What happens if the first treatment doesn't work?

Find Specialists

Connect with expert oncologists for your cancer type

Clinical Trials

Explore cutting-edge treatments in active trials

Second Opinions

Learn when and how to get a second opinion