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.
A blood disorder specialist is a highly trained physician who focuses on diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic systems. Most often, these specialists are board-certified hematologists, and many are also oncologists with extensive expertise in both cancer-related and non-cancerous blood disorders. Patients may be referred to a blood disorder specialist…
Anemia is a common blood disorder that occurs when the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to the tissues. Managing anemia in the long term requires a proactive and comprehensive approach, as the condition can significantly impact a person's energy levels, overall health, and quality of life. For individuals with…
Meeting with an oncologist for the first time can feel overwhelming. Whether the appointment is for a new diagnosis, a second opinion, or follow-up care, knowing what to ask can provide greater clarity and peace of mind. An informed patient is often better prepared to participate in the treatment process and make educated decisions about…
A diagnosis of a blood-related condition can feel overwhelming. However, learning more about hematologic disease treatment can help bring a sense of clarity and control. These diseases affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system, and treatment often depends on the specific type and its progression. Understanding what to expect during care can help make…
A blood disorder specialist is a highly trained physician who focuses on diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic systems. Most often, these specialists are board-certified hematologists, and many are also oncologists with extensive expertise in both cancer-related and non-cancerous blood disorders. Patients may be referred to a blood disorder specialist…
Anemia is a common blood disorder that occurs when the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to the tissues. Managing anemia in the long term requires a proactive and comprehensive approach, as the condition can significantly impact a person's energy levels, overall health, and quality of life. For individuals with…