Newly Diagnosed

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

1. What is my diagnosis, and what does it mean for me?

2. What are the treatment options available?

3. What are the possible side effects of the treatment?

4. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make?

5. What should I expect in the short-term and long-term?

6. Should I see any specialists or get a second opinion?

7. Are there any support groups or resources available to me?

8. What are the costs of my treatment, and does my insurance cover it?

9. How often will I need follow-up appointments?

10. Are there any clinical trials or research opportunities I should consider?

Symptom Tracker

Use this simple guide to track your symptoms over time. This will help you and your healthcare provider understand your condition better and adjust treatments if necessary.

• Symptom
  (e.g., shortness of breath, fatigue, pain)

• Date/Time
  (When did the symptom start?)

• Severity
  (1-10 scale: 1 being mild, 10 being severe)

• Duration
  (How long did the symptom last?)

• Triggers
  (Did anything make the symptom better or worse?)

• Other Notes
  (Any additional details, such as how you felt or activities at the time)

Medication Log

Keep track of your medications to ensure you’re following your prescribed treatment plan.

• Medication Name

• Dosage

• Frequency

• Start Date

• End Date (if applicable)

• Prescribing Doctor

• Possible Side Effects

• Notes
  (How do you feel while on this medication?)

Emergency Care Plan

It’s important to have a plan in case of a medical emergency.

• Primary Doctor Name & Contact Information

• Emergency Contact Person
  (Include their name and relationship to you)

• List of Current Medications

• Allergies

• Special Instructions
  (Any treatments or therapies that should be considered)

• Preferred Hospital or Facility

• Advance Directive Information
  (Your wishes for end-of-life care, if applicable)

Wellness Tips for Daily Life

• Sleep
  Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Create a calming bedtime routine and avoid screen time before bed.

• Exercise
  Try to stay active with light exercises such as walking, swimming, or yoga. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise plan.

• Nutrition
  Focus on a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Stay hydrated and reduce processed foods and sugars.

• Stress Management
  Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or journaling. Regular physical activity can also reduce stress.

• Mindfulness & Mental Health
  Take time for activities that bring you joy and peace. Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional mental health support if needed.

Emotional Support & Self-Care

• Process Your Emotions
  Understand that it's normal to feel a range of emotions, including fear, sadness, or even anger. Take time for yourself to reflect.

• Reach Out to Friends & Family
  Talking to loved ones about how you’re feeling can help ease emotional burdens and strengthen your support network.

• Seek Professional Help
  If you’re struggling to cope with emotions, a counselor or therapist can help you manage difficult feelings.

• Consider Joining a Support Group
  Whether in person or online, support groups can help you connect with others facing similar challenges.

• Self-Care
  Take small steps every day to care for your body and mind, whether it’s through taking a walk, reading, or practicing mindfulness.

Building Your Care Team

• Find the Right Specialists
  Ask your doctor for recommendations or seek out specialists who are experienced with your condition.

• Work Together
  Create a communication plan with your healthcare providers to ensure they’re all on the same page. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or clarify instructions.

• Get a Second Opinion
  If you feel uncertain about your treatment plan, seeking a second opinion can help you feel more confident in your decisions.

• Questions for Your Doctor
  Prepare a list of questions for each appointment to make sure you don’t miss anything important.

Navigating Insurance & Financial Assistance

• Understand Your Insurance Plan
  Familiarize yourself with the coverage, co-pays, and deductibles in your insurance plan. Talk to your insurer for details on coverage for treatment.

• Patient Assistance Programs
  Many pharmaceutical companies offer assistance for medications. Check if you qualify for any programs to help with costs.

• Explore Financial Aid
  Many nonprofit organizations provide financial help for medical expenses. Do research to find available resources.

• Medical Bills Management
  Keep a record of all medical bills and statements. Contact the hospital or provider if there are errors or questions about charges.

Advocacy & Support Networks

• Connect with Support Groups
  Search for local or online support groups for your specific condition to gain emotional support and share experiences.

• Advocate for Your Health
  Learn how to effectively advocate for your needs during doctor visits or when interacting with your healthcare team.

• Get Involved in the Community
  Volunteering or supporting advocacy groups can provide a sense of purpose and help improve healthcare for others facing similar challenges.

Educational Resources

• Find Trustworthy Information
  Look for reliable medical websites and publications that are backed by scientific research. Some reputable sources include:

  • National Institutes of Health (NIH)

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

  • Mayo Clinic

• Read Books or Listen to Podcasts
  Books and podcasts can provide valuable insights into managing health conditions, coping strategies, and maintaining mental well-being.

Planning for the Future

• Track Your Health
  Keep a detailed health journal to track symptoms, medications, and doctor’s appointments. This will help you monitor your progress and make informed decisions.

• Create an Advance Directive
  Set up an emergency care plan or advance directive to ensure your wishes are known in case of serious illness or emergencies.