You will, of course, have your own questions, especially once the doctor starts sharing information. But some basic questions you might ask include:

• What is my diagnosis (the medical name for the illness I have) and what does that mean?
• How serious is my diagnosis?
• What treatments are recommended?
• Are there other treatment options? What are they?
• What benefits would you expect from the recommended treatments and other options?
• What are the risks or complications of the recommended treatment and the other treatment options?
• Are there problems or side effects that may be caused by the treatments?
• What methods will be used to prevent or relieve these problems or side effects?
• What are the side effects of the treatment -- immediate, short-term, and long-term?
• How will having treatment affect my normal functions and everyday activities?
• How would not having treatment affect my normal functions and everyday activities?
• How long will treatment last?
• How long will it be before I can go back to my normal activities?
• How much does the treatment cost?
• Will my insurance cover it?

It's a good idea to write down your questions and bring the list to your appointments, take notes on the responses, or bring a tape recorder to record the discussion. (You will want to check with the doctor before you record him or her.) Good health providers usually appreciate a patient's efforts to understand the challenges they face and to make informed decisions.

How long does the informed consent process take?

The entire informed consent process can take place in one short visit for a fairly simple procedure about which you have few questions. On the other hand, it may take 2 or more conversations for something more complex. For instance, if you are looking at more than one treatment option, a long course of treatment, or a clinical trial, it may take some time. In fact, even after you have signed up for a clinical trial and signed a consent form, the researchers conducting it should still keep you posted about new information that affects you as a volunteer. This is part of an ongoing informed consent process, which can sometimes extend past the clinical trial itself.