How Can I Politely Question My Doctor’s Advice? 

An oncologist explains the best way to approach your doctor with concerns and questions.  

Minh Dang Nguyen, MD, an oncologist with USC Newport Beach Oncology, part of the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center and Keck Medicine of USC, advises how to effectively question treatment advice from your doctor.  

Just like any other relationship between two people, the relationship between a physician and a patient depends on each unique scenario. If you have a really good relationship with your doctor, maybe you’ve been seeing them for years, then questioning their advice is going to be an easier conversation. Some doctors are more approachable, while others might be a bit more difficult.  

But no matter who your doctor is, the best way to approach questioning a doctor’s advice is to be inquisitive rather than confrontational. If you’re going to a brand new doctor, it’s always good to come in with a friendly attitude. Doctors are people, too, so the same tactics that work positively in relationships with friends and family apply here.  

Be respectful and curious as to why a doctor is recommending a certain course of treatment. Most doctors will understand where you are coming from and be able to answer your questions. As doctors, our job is to help you — the patient — and do what’s best for you. It’s important to keep an open mind because many times there are multiple approaches to treating a similar problem. Your treatment should reflect a team approach.  

Still, at the end of the day, you are your own best advocate. So, if you have questions about what a doctor is recommending to you, always bring your concerns up with your doctor. I recommend waiting until the end of the appointment, after your doctor has had a chance to explain everything to you, because many times your questions might be answered by the information presented to you throughout the appointment.  

And at the end of the day, if you still are questioning your doctor’s advice, you can always get a second opinion from a different doctor. Ultimately, the best treatment is the one you are on board and comfortable with and that aligns with your goals and needs.  

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