Your Role on Your Health Care Team You are an important member of your own health care team. Even when you don't feel your best, assuming an active role in your treatment is important.    Communication is one of the key ingredients to working with your health care team.   Although the hospital or cancer center may be an unfamiliar place, and some of the words you hear may sound strange, always get the answers to the questions you have.   Never be afraid to talk openly to your doctor and other members of your health care team. Your ideas are vital. And no one knows better than you how you are feeling. It may be helpful to bring another person with you to your appointments so that person can help you listen and ask questions during your visit. If possible, write your questions out before your scheduled visit. You may want to ask questions about the treatment itself, side effects, limitations from the treatment, restrictions on your activities, and alternative treatment options.   Listen carefully to the answers you are given. Write the answers down or record them so you can review the information later.   Make sure you understand what your doctor has said. If you don't understand -- ask again. It's vital to be completely informed about every aspect of your care. Questions you may want to ask can include: What treatment is most commonly recommended for the type of cancer I have?   How is my treatment going to be administered?   What type of side effects can I expect from this treatment?   What are the benefits of this treatment?   What are the risks?   Do I have treatment options?   Will my insurance cover this treatment?   Are there any alternative treatments that might be considered?   Are there any parts of my treatment we haven't talked about or that I don't know enough to ask about?   Are there additional resources I might find to help me through this time? You can also be an advocate for your own health by identifying clearly what your needs are. You may have financial needs, medical needs, housing needs, insurance needs, equipment needs, or other needs that must be met. Once you have identified those needs and expressed them clearly, the next step is to ask questions and determine who is going to be able to meet those needs for you.  One of the most important things you need to remember is you are not alone. There are professionals who can help you find solutions to meet your needs. Additionally, there are support groups and services for people who have shared the same experiences you are going through. Click here for information about local and National Support Groups and Services.