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Questions for the doctor

During your initial visits to the Princess Máxima Center, your head is in a spin, making it difficult for you to ask the doctor relevant questions. Here are some tips that might help you.

Prior to receiving the diagnosis

  • Does my child have cancer?
  • What type of cancer do you think my child has?
  • Which tests will my child get?
  • How can we prepare for them?
  • Will our child be hospitalized for these tests?
  • When will you receive the test results?


Diagnosis

  • What form of cancer does my child have?
  • Where is the cancer located?
  • How serious is it?
  • Will my child survive?
  • Will you please explain the test results?
  • Is it a good idea to get a second opinion?


Treatment

  • What treatment will my child be given?
  • What is the treatment to achieve?
  • How likely is it that the treatment will be successful?
  • How does the treatment work?
  • What is your experience with this treatment?
  • When will treatment commence?
  • How long does the treatment take?
  • Are there any other effective treatments?
  • Who are involved in the treatment?
  • Will our child's entire treatment be administered in the Máxima Center or can we also go to another hospital?


Admission

  • Should my child be admitted straight away? What's the procedure for that?
  • May I stay with my child?
  • May my brothers and sisters visit?
  • May other people come and visit?


Adverse effects

  • What side effects can be expected on the short term?
  • How can you ensure that my child has the least possible adverse effects?
  • What side effects can be expected in the long term?
  • Will my child still be able to have children?
  • What can you do to prevent or mitigate adverse effects in the long term?


Consequences

  • What impact will the treatment have on my child's development?
  • How will the treatment affect my child's daily life? Can my child attend school, participate in sports or play with friends?


Practical matters

  • Who can I phone in case of acute problems?
  • To whom can I address my questions?
  • Is the treatment covered by my health insurance provider?
  • What else is important to know?