Talking with your doctor

It’s important to be open and honest with your doctors and nurses. Always tell them how you’re feeling at every visit. Feel free to ask questions about your health and treatment.

Tips for visiting your doctor

Have you ever left a doctor’s appointment feeling like you forgot some of what you discussed? Or realized you didn’t ask a question you wanted to? This is a common experience even when information is explained clearly. Here are some tips to help:

Take notes during your visits

Ask if you can record your talks

Bring a family member or friend along for support

Ask other care team members questions too

Getting ready for your visits

Keep a notebook to write down questions that come up between doctor visits.

Bring any important information your doctor may need to know. This might include changes in how you’ve been feeling, new medications you’re taking, and other medical conditions you have.

How much do you want to know?

Some people feel more in control when they fully understand their disease, treatments, and what to expect. Other people only want to know the basics. Don’t be afraid to tell your doctor how much or how little you want to learn.

You may want to ask your doctor or nurse questions about:

How is multiple myeloma different from other cancers, like breast or lung cancer?
How would you describe my risk level?
What is my prognosis (outlook)?
What doctors will be involved in my care?
Will there be one doctor or nurse coordinating my care?

What should I expect when I go for testing?
What types of tests will I undergo, and how often?
How should I prepare for these tests?
Where will I go for these tests?
When and how will I get the results of my tests?
Can you explain what my results mean after each test?

What types of treatments are available for multiple myeloma?
Could a stem cell transplant be an option for me?
Do I need chemotherapy as part of my multiple myeloma treatment?
What are the risks and benefits of each treatment?
What treatment do you recommend, and why?
Will I be able to continue my normal work schedule with this treatment?
What are your thoughts on visiting a multiple myeloma specialist?
Is there a multiple myeloma specialist you would recommend and would coordinate with?

Is this treatment covered by my insurance?
Are there patient assistance programs?
Is there a financial counselor or someone in the office I can speak with about affording treatment?

Discover how multiple myeloma is diagnosed

Talking with your doctor

Tips for visiting your doctor

Getting ready for your visits

How much do you want to know?

About Bristol Myers Squibb