What to Expect at Your First Oncology Appointment
The first oncology appointment is a chance for the patient and the oncologist to get to know each other. Understanding what to expect can help patients who are nervous or anxious to feel better before the visit and ensure they are able to come fully prepared.
The oncology consultation process
Each visit is unique and tailored to the patient’s specific needs, but it typically involves meeting with the oncologist and the rest of the oncology team, documenting previous medical history, a physical examination and a discussion about the treatment plan. The following is an overview of each step that is likely involved during the first visit.
Meeting the oncology team
Oftentimes, the first thing that will occur during an oncology appointment is to meet with the oncologist and the rest of the staff. Depending on the stage of the process (diagnosis, treatment, etc.), the oncologist may collect medical information and discuss the symptoms the patient is experiencing. This is also a good opportunity for patients to ask the oncologist questions about concerns they may have or about what lies ahead during the treatment process.
The physical examination
The next step is testing. The oncologist may start by conducting a physical examination to check for tumors and secondary symptoms of cancer. They may also order various blood tests, order imaging tests and schedule a time for a biopsy if necessary. If the patient is there due to symptoms and has not been diagnosed with cancer, then the goal of the visit is to determine if the patient has cancer and what stage of cancer the patient is in if it does exist. This information allows the patient and the oncologist to find the best treatment plan possible.
Determining a treatment plan
Based on the pathology reports, an oncologist will determine the best course of action either on the first visit or soon after. This allows the patient to mentally prepare early in the process and get ahead of the game in fighting the cancer. Oncologists rarely treat patients by themselves, and they may refer the patient to other types of oncologists and health professionals if there are areas where the patient will need additional assistance during the treatment process.
Ask questions and building trust
The initial oncology appointment is also designed to help the patient learn. The oncologist will welcome any and all questions the patient has about cancer, their symptoms, the diagnosis and the treatment plan. Asking questions helps the patient feel more comfortable, and having a back and forth conversation allows the patient to develop a trusting relationship with the oncologist. This trust can help the patient remain confident during treatment.
Schedule an oncology appointment today
To learn more about what to expect at a first oncology appointment, or if there are any other outstanding questions then we encourage individuals to reach out today. A consultation can be done to determine needs, which can dictate how the oncology treatment process goes.
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.
Recent Posts
Oncology is a medical specialty that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and managing cancer. Given the increasing prevalence of cancer worldwide, understanding oncology is essential for patients, caregivers, and the general public. This specialty encompasses various disciplines and treatments, from detection and non-invasive techniques to long-term and advanced therapeutic techniques.Many have heard of cancer, but not…
Advances in medical technology have broadened the range of available lung cancer treatments, which now include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Due to the various types of treatments, having a multidisciplinary oncology care team increases the chances of remission. Knowing what to expect from these treatments can help patients feel more informed…
Early detection and timely skin cancer treatment are crucial for successful outcomes and improved health. Skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, can often be treated when identified early. Monitoring the skin for unusual changes and seeking professional care helps minimize risks. Partnering with a team of oncologists and hematologists ensures…
Choosing the right oncologist is one of the most important decisions you will make when facing a cancer diagnosis. The oncologist will guide your treatment, monitor your progress, and play a crucial role in improving your quality of life. With the keyword "oncologist near me" in mind, it is important to understand what to look…