Initial Consultaion
As a new radiation treatment patient, your first visit will most likely be initiated through notification from your primary physician (referring physician). Primary physicians will oftentimes call or fax information regarding your need for treatment. Once notified, our staff will contact you to gather preliminary information, and to request that you bring any relevant x-rays, scans, CTs, etc. We will assist you in arranging for procurement of these items.

Upon your arrival, our receptionist will greet you in the main lobby. She will accept these records, gather additional information (i.e. personal, insurance, physician and/or surgeon’s name, employer, etc.), and begin processing the necessary paperwork. In addition, she will take your photograph, which will be placed in your chart for identification purposes.

Next, you will meet with one of the nurses in a private conference room. She will explain what radiation treatment is, what you can expect, and answer any questions you may have. It is important to not be afraid or embarrassed to ask any questions. We want you to be as knowledgeable and comfortable as possible with your treatment.

At the end of your conference, the nurse will present you with a special bag containing personal care items, such as soap, hand lotion, brochures, a book on radiation therapy, and other small gifts.
 
A financial assistance person will be available to sit down with you to discuss costs, insurance and methods of payment. This person will explain what your insurance will cover, as well as what, if any, co-payments are required. In addition, various interest-free payment plans will also be presented to you. The last thing we want you to worry about is how to pay for your treatment. Your focus should be on yourself and improving your health.

The nurse will return to give you a tour of the facility, showing you where the treatment rooms, dressing rooms and second waiting room are located. This will also give you an opportunity to see the equipment and ask further questions about radiation treatment.

At the end of the tour, the nurse will take your weight and vital signs. Then you will meet with your radiation oncologist (a physician who specializes in radiation cancer treatment) in a private examination room.

After reviewing your chart, the radiation oncologist will conduct a physical examination. Once this is completed, your x-rays will be reviewed with you, and all treatment options and side effects will be fully discussed.

Again, it is important to not be afraid to ask any questions or express any concerns you may have. We are here to help you achieve greater health, and will spend as much time as necessary to help you understand and feel at ease.

When the treatment option is agreed upon, you will be asked to sign a form granting Radiation Oncology Group permission to treat you. Then, your radiation oncologist will send you for treatment simulation, which is done on the premises.