Preparing for your first visit helps you make the most of the consultation and ensures your oncologist has a full picture of your health background.
Before Your Appointment
- Arrival time: Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes early to complete registration and pre-consultation formalities.
- Schedule confirmation: Check the estimated consultation time and any required pre-assessments so you can plan your visit comfortably.
- Assemble reports: Bring all relevant documents — previous medical records, lab reports, pathology results, and imaging tests (CT, MRI, PET).
- Organize documents: Keep your reports neatly filed or in a folder. Many hospitals create a dedicated patient file for easy reference.
During the Consultation
- Share full medical history: Include past illnesses, treatments, surgeries, and chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension).
- List medications: Carry an updated list of prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements.
- Prepare questions: Write down queries about diagnosis, treatment options, side effects, and next steps so nothing important is missed.
- Communicate openly: Honest, clear communication builds trust and supports better treatment decisions.