Chemoimmunotherapy: questions to ask before treatment starts

Why questions matter

Treatment for blood conditions can be complex and affect daily life. Many people feel better prepared when they understand the aim of the plan, what the steps are and who to contact. It is completely normal to ask your doctor to explain things more than once.

Questions about the plan

1. What is the diagnosis, and what is the goal of treatment (for example control, remission or symptom relief)?
2. What does the treatment plan involve, and how long is it expected to last?
3. Are there other options, and what happens if I choose to wait?
4. How will we know whether it is working?

Questions about safety

1. What side effects are most likely, and which ones are serious?
2. Which symptoms mean I should call or go to hospital straight away, for example fever?
3. How will blood counts and other tests be monitored?
4. Do my other medicines, supplements or health conditions affect the plan?
5. What should I know about infections, vaccines and fertility?

Practical questions

1. How long will each session take, and can someone stay with me?
2. How should I prepare, including food, drink and regular medicines?
3. Who do I contact with questions, and how quickly can I expect a reply?
4. What costs should I expect? At Haemcare the published fee covers administration only. Medicines and other separately agreed charges are extra.

How requests work at Haemcare

Chemoimmunotherapy is a treatment request. You submit it, and the doctor reviews your history, reports and current prescription. Only after the doctor approves it does the clinic send payment instructions. Submitting a request is not an approval.

You can read about the chemoimmunotherapy request process, or discuss your situation in a new consultation.

Frequently asked questions