What is the difference between Medical Oncology and Radiation Oncology?
Medical oncology is the study and treatment of cancers using therapeutic agents such as chemicals, biological products or immunotherapy.
Radiation oncology is the study and treatment of cancers using radiation therapies such as x-rays, gamma rays or electrons.
How do I make an appointment?
If you are a new patient, we recommend that your referring physician call the practice of your choice to schedule an appointment on your behalf. At that time, we will arrange to obtain your previous medical records and other necessary information from your referring physician's office. If you are already a patient and you need to make or reschedule an appointment, please call your chosen practice directly.
When I arrive for an appointment, what can I expect?
Our patients are seen on an appointment basis. When you arrive for your scheduled appointment, please check in with the receptionist who will give you any required information and direct you to the appropriate medical staff.
Which health insurance companies do you accept?
We accept a wide selection of insurance plans to meet the needs of our patients. Because the list may change from time to time, please ask your practice staff for the most up to date information. They will also assit you if you have questions with regard to your specific insurance plan. On your first visit, you will meet with one of our financial counselors who will collect all of your insurance information and open an account for you. Over the course of your treatment, we will file claims with your insurance company, post any payments made to your account and send out monthly statements.
Will my insurance cover treatment?
A financial counselor will meet with you during your first visit with us. He or she will verify your insurance coverage and determine procedures pre-authorized by your insurance company. For all amounts not covered by insurance, your counselor will work with you to determine an appropriate schedule of payment
May I bring family members or friends to my appointments?
Yes, you may bring a family member or friend with you to your appointments. On your initial consultation and visit, there will be times when you must be seen by our staff alone and other times where one additional person can accompany you. Toward the end of your first visit, the doctor will provide you with information on your recommended course of treatment. At that time, you may invite additional family members or friends to join the consultation.
How do I know if my treatment is working?
Your medical team will conduct regular evaluations of your treatment, record your vital signs, and complete lab work such as a complete blood count (CBC) or tumor markers. Your physician will give you a physical exam and may order x-rays and other scans. Your physician and medical team are accessible to answer questions you may have throughout your treatment.
If I am feeling poorly at home, what signs should I watch for?
During the course of treatment, you may be at risk of certain side effects that could lead to serious medical problems:
- Fever of 100.5 degrees or higher
- Chills (with or without fever)
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Severe and persistent vomiting, diarrhea and/or mouth sores
- Shortness of breath or inability to catch your breath
- Other warning signs your physician has indicated
If you are concerned about these or any other symptoms, call your practice or go to the emergency room of your local hospital. Always inform emergency staff that you are a cancer patient in treatment.
