If you have been recently diagnosed with cancer, you might find yourself wondering what to expect during your first oncology appointment. You probably have many questions about your condition, what your treatment options are and what the future looks likes.
Depending on the type of cancer you are dealing with, your first oncology appointment might be with a doctor who specializes in radiation, medical or surgical treatments for cancer. The oncologist's role is to help you to understand your diagnosis and your treatment options so that you can make an educated decision about your treatment.
During a patient's first visit with an oncologist, the doctor will ask questions about their medical history and any symptoms they are currently experiencing. The oncologist might also order up additional tests or refer the patient to a specialist.
Patients should take all medical reports related to their condition to their appointment. This includes pathology slides, MRIs, x-rays or CT scans. Patients should also bring any medications they are currently taking, including dietary supplements. Even essential nutrients like vitamin D or calcium can have negative interactions with some cancer treatments.
Patients should be prepared to take notes during their appointment and they can bring someone along for moral support as well as to have another set of ears listening and asking questions. The most important thing patients can do during their first oncology appointment is to listen closely to what is being said. Many of the questions they have will be answered as the oncologist educates the patient and that leads to other questions.
Here are some important topics patients should plan to discuss with their oncologist during their first appointment:
After the doctor goes over the patient's condition and their treatment options, they will also predict how likely the patient is to recover. The type of cancer the patient is dealing with and how far it has progressed are two of the main factors used to make this prognosis. How well the patient responds to treatment can also be factored in.
If the patient is not happy with the prognosis, the oncologist might recommend a new type of treatment.
Call or visit our Marlton clinic to learn more about how our oncologist can help you to deal with your cancer diagnosis and provide the treatments you need.
Get more information here: https://lindenbergcancer.com or call Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center at (856) 475-0876
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Oncology in Marlton, NJ.
Gastrointestinal cancer treatment is a broad and evolving field focusing on cancers affecting the digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, small intestine, colon, and rectum. Each area may involve different approaches based on the cancer's stage, location, and specific genetic factors. Oncologists often coordinate with surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists to create a…
Finding a hematologist near me is an important step when facing symptoms that may indicate a blood disorder or a more serious underlying condition. While not every unusual symptom warrants a referral, recognizing certain signs early can lead to more effective treatment and improved outcomes. Knowing when a hematologist’s expertise is necessary can help patients…
Colon cancer treatment often involves a combination of therapies to destroy cancer cells while protecting overall health. Each person’s treatment plan differs and depends on several factors. Though colon cancer treatment can seem complicated and overwhelming, understanding what to expect can help patients feel more at ease and make informed decisions about their health.Before treatment…
Acute myelogenous leukemia treatment focuses on eliminating cancerous cells in the bone marrow while improving health and well-being. Advancements in oncology have led to a range of effective treatment options, including standard therapies and emerging approaches through clinical trials. By tailoring treatment plans, an oncologist can help patients manage this aggressive form of leukemia and,…
Gastrointestinal cancer treatment is a broad and evolving field focusing on cancers affecting the digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, small intestine, colon, and rectum. Each area may involve different approaches based on the cancer's stage, location, and specific genetic factors. Oncologists often coordinate with surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists to create a…
Finding a hematologist near me is an important step when facing symptoms that may indicate a blood disorder or a more serious underlying condition. While not every unusual symptom warrants a referral, recognizing certain signs early can lead to more effective treatment and improved outcomes. Knowing when a hematologist’s expertise is necessary can help patients…