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What to bring to an oncologist appointment
Bring your questions, a list of your medicines, your symptom notes since last time, any letters or results, and someone to take notes. A short checklist the night before saves you stress on the day.
Documents
- Appointment letter and photo ID
- Recent test results, scan reports and pathology reports
- Letters from other doctors
Your information
- A list of all medicines and supplements, with doses
- Allergies and past reactions
- Your symptom notes since last time, with dates and scores from 0 to 10
Your questions
- Your top three questions, most important first
- A pen and paper or a notes app
People and practicalities
- A person whose only job is to take notes
- Water, a snack, a charger and something to read
- Contact numbers, including the out-of-hours number
At the end of the appointment
Ask: "What is the most important thing I should remember from today?" and "What are the next steps and when?"
See also 10 questions to ask your oncologist and the symptom diary.
Frequently asked questions
What should I bring to my first oncology appointment?
Documents, medicines list, symptom notes, questions and a note-taker.
Do I need to bring a person?
It helps. They listen and write while you focus on the conversation.
Can I record the appointment?
Ask your team first. Many are fine with notes or a recording when you ask.
For information only, not medical advice. For information only, not medical advice. Follow your care team's guidance, and use the number you were given for anything urgent.