Your First Visit

People with lung cancer are seen on the fourth floor of the SCCA clinic. If you are scheduled to meet only with a surgeon, you will have that appointment at the University of Washington Medical Center's Surgical Specialties clinic.

During your visit, you will meet with the specialists who may include a medical oncologist and radiation oncologist who specialize in treating people with lung cancer.

Because of our multidisciplinary team approach, we will arrange for you to see all the necessary specialists in the most efficient way, usually during the same appointment.

This appointment usually lasts more than an hour. You are encouraged to bring a friend or family member with you, to help take notes and offer emotional support.

During your appointment:

• Any tests or biopsies you have had, such as X-rays, CT scans, or PET scans, will be reviewed by your doctor or doctors.

• You will meet with your doctor, who will conduct a thorough examination.

• After the examination, your doctor will discuss your diagnosis with you, answer all of your questions, and suggest a treatment plan. You may tape this conversation if you like, to review later.

• You will leave at the end of the appointment with a treatment plan for your care.

You may want to read about treatment options for lung cancer at SCCA.

 

October 2006