Jo, start writing your questions down- and leave some room to write answers. Just seeing you write things down will cause them to pause. There is a lot of info to take in- so if someone can come with you- that would be great! And it is totally ok to tell them you need a minute to process whatever they just said! Do make sure you ask if there will be a nurse navigator assigned to your case. They are an awesome resource- they are great to ask questions of, let you know about various resources available, and can get to the doctor faster than we can- lol! (mine had real ninja skills there!). Keeping you in prayers that all goes well with your first visit! Oh, and if you can- plan to treat yourself after- whether it is a stop in a favorite shop, or grabbing something to eat! Hugs!
Thanks for all the great advice!!!!
I would anticipate about an hour. If possible, take someone with you, 4 ears are better than 2. Take notes, maybe record the meeting.
Buy a note book. Like Virginia said, start writing questions down now. You will forget when you get there.
Will you have a treatment plan? Maybe, maybe not. It depends on what is needed for work up, and is that done. Is all the pathology completely read, is all the imaging done and read? Sometimes additional biopsies are needed.
If you don’t understand something, keep asking for more explanation. Do not let them rush you. Sometimes a second opinion can help if you still feel unsure.
This journey is a marathon, not a sprint.
Wishing you well!
How long should you expect your first oncologist appointment to be, and will a treatment plan be made then?
Your first oncologist appointment will likely last around 24 minutes or less, which is typical for oncology visits in the U.S. However, this can feel quite short given how much information you'll need to discuss and Show Full Answer