20 questions to ask before treatment

Your consultation checklist

Before deciding on treatment, ask:

1. What is the exact diagnosis you propose to treat?
2. What specific cells or biologic product will be used?
3. Where do the cells come from?
4. Are they autologous or donor-derived?
5. How are they processed?
6. What quality and sterility testing is performed?
7. What clinical evidence supports this treatment for my condition?
8. Is the treatment established, investigational or experimental?
9. What regulatory authorization applies in this country?
10. Has an independent ethics committee reviewed the protocol where applicable?
11. What are the known risks?
12. What risks remain unknown?
13. What other treatments should I consider?
14. Who performs the procedure?
15. What are that physician's credentials and specialty?
16. Where will the procedure be performed?
17. What happens if I develop a complication?
18. What follow-up care will I receive after returning home?
19. What is included in the quoted cost?
20. Can I obtain the complete treatment protocol and informed-consent information before paying?

A credible healthcare organization should be comfortable answering detailed questions.