Should I arrange a ride to chemotherapy?

Yes, arranging a ride ahead of time is a step the National Cancer Institute specifically recommends preparing for. Fatigue is the most common side effect of chemotherapy, and it can be hard to predict — some people feel tired right away, while others feel fine at first and then find fatigue catches up with them later in the day.

Planning a ride in advance, rather than waiting to see how you feel, means one less decision to make on a day that may already be tiring or stressful. NCI also suggests planning time to rest on the day of and the day after chemotherapy, and asking for help with meals and childcare during that window.

If arranging a ride is difficult — for example, if you don't have family or friends nearby — ask your care team or a social worker. Many cancer centers can connect you with rides through volunteer driver programs, hospital transportation services, or community resources.

Your care team can also tell you more about what to expect from your specific treatment, including whether fatigue tends to show up right away or build over time.