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Consultation

Patient Walk Through

Consultation

During your first visit, a radiation oncologist will review all aspects of your status that could influence your need for radiation therapy and its likely results. This includes review of your current problem, past medical history, past surgical history, family history, medications, allergies, lifestyle and an organ system by organ system audit. We will also perform a physical examination that will help us assess the extent of your problem and judge your general physical condition to estimate any influence it may have over your response to radiation therapy. We will also review any relevant x-rays and lab tests that you already have had. 

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, we will discuss fully with you the potential benefits, risks and alternatives of radiation therapy in your care and answer any questions that you may have. Of course, if you think of any new questions later on, we will answer them as they arise.

If you require any additional testing before a recommendation can be made, we will arrange for it to be done.

As all of this takes time, please be prepared to spend at least 1½ hours with us for your consultation. Do not be deceived into thinking that all linear accelerators provide the same treatment. The quality and expertise of the physicians and technical staff is extremely important.

Before a simulation is scheduled the radiation therapy process will be explained in detail. You will be asked to sign a consent form indicating an understanding of the treatment and its possible side effects. This is a standard procedure for all patients. If there are any questions about your treatment or the consent form, this will the time to discuss them with the radiation oncologist.