What to expect at your first visit

The main entrance to the Upstate Cancer Center.

The first appointment at the Upstate Cancer Center is usually a consultation that lasts at least 1½ hours and involves the oncologist and other members of the treatment team who will discuss options and recommendations with the patient. Oncologists will have reviewed radiology and laboratory results and other information from referring physicians prior to the patient’s arrival.

Before arriving:

• Do some research on the type of cancer you have. Find resources at upstate.edu/cancer under the “cancer types” tab.
• Write down specific questions.

  Atrium of the Cancer Center.

• Learn about your physician at upstate.edu/hospital/providers
• Let the appointment scheduling staff know if translation services or interpretation for the hearing impaired are needed.

What to bring:

• Completed medical history form, located at upstate.edu/cancer under “your first visit.”
• Referring physician’s name, address and phone number.
• List of prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines and supplements.
• List of questions.
• Family member or friend who can help listen and take notes.
• Health insurance cards, plus your employer’s name, address and phone number if you are covered under an employer’s insurance program. Also, living will or advance directives, if you have them.
• Parking ticket for validation.

For questions, please call 464-HOPE (4673).

This article appears in the summer 2015 issue of Cancer Care magazine.