Your First Oncology Appointment at HCG: What to Expect

Table of Contents

• Overview
• Your First Oncology Appointment
• Preparing for Your First Oncology Appointment at HCG
• What Happens During Your First Oncology Visit
• Online Cancer Consultation: Meet HCG’s Specialists from Anywhere
• What Questions Should I Ask at the First Cancer Appointment?
• Understanding Your Diagnosis & Next Steps
• Seeking a Second Opinion on Your Diagnosis?
• How to Choose a Cancer Hospital for First Visit and Treatment
• Managing Emotional Distress Effectively
• Exploring Support Services & Resources
• Frequently Asked Questions

Overview

Are you preparing for your first oncology appointment?

It can be overwhelming, and we understand you. So, we made a detailed guide on how to prepare for and what to expect from your first oncology consultation.

This guide aims to provide you with a sense of clarity on what to expect and help you make informed health decisions and avoid unnecessary confusion.

The primary goal of this appointment is to find out more about your health, discuss the symptoms you are experiencing, assess available diagnostic information, review your personal and family medical history, and plan the next steps.

During your first oncology visit to HCG, our specialists will ensure that you feel seen, heard, and supported, and leave the hospital with a clear plan of action.

Read on to learn how to schedule your first cancer appointment at HCG.

Your First Oncology Appointment

A first oncology appointment, or first cancer appointment, is nothing but your first visit to a hospital to consult an oncologist, a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancer.

In most cases, you will be referred to an oncologist by a general physician when they come across the signs or symptoms that indicate cancer. However, in other instances, patients may choose to consult an oncologist on their own.

During your first cancer consultation, depending on your referral or the type of cancer you are suspected of having, you may see a medical oncologist, who recommends systemic therapies, like chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy; a surgical oncologist, who treats cancer through surgery; or a radiation oncologist, who manages cancers through radiotherapy.

When Does One Consider an Oncology Appointment?

Before booking your first oncology appointment or understanding the process, it is essential to understand the different scenarios that can make an individual consider getting an oncologist appointment.

At HCG, individuals coming to see an oncologist fall into one of the following four categories:

1.Confirmed Cancer Cases:

The cases where patients have already received a confirmed diagnosis elsewhere, and they are visiting HCG for a second opinion second opinion or to undergo treatment. In such cases, our specialists at HCG will verify the diagnosis with additional genomic and cytogenic studies. Based on the conclusive diagnosis, a second opinion or treatment recommendations will be shared.

2.Doubtful Cases:

The cases where patients have partial information about their condition or have incomplete reports, which may be unclear. These patients will be asked to undergo additional pathology tests and advanced imaging tests for a conclusive diagnosis and subsequent treatments.

3.Undiagnosed Cases:

Those cases where patients have symptoms but are unsure if they have cancer and have not undergone any tests for cancer detection. For such cases, doctors at HCG recommend a detailed investigation, involving mammography, biopsy, and imaging tests for a confirmed diagnosis, which will be followed by customized treatment planning.

4.Proactive Prevention Cases:

Those cases where individuals proactively meet specialists to understand their cancer risk and learn about different preventive measures they can take against cancer, which may include lifestyle modifications and cancer screening.

Preparing for Your First Oncology Appointment at HCG

Being prepared is very important to make sure that you get the most out of your first oncology visit. Preparation can help you stay calm, have smoother discussions, and make informed health decisions.

Here are some first oncology consultation tips to help you with scheduling and preparing for your first oncology appointment at HCG:.

How To Schedule

There are multiple ways you can schedule your first appointment with our oncologists, and they include:

Through the Website:

Please visit the HCG website, where you can book your appointment through live chat with our AI assistant on the website, WhatsApp support, or by filling out the appointment form on our website.

Through the Mobile App, HCG Care:

HCG Care,a patient-friendly mobile app by HCG, allows you to book an appointment with a specialist of your choice with just a few clicks. This app is available both on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.

Through the Call Center:

You can also book an appointment with our specialists by giving us a call on our centralized call center number, +91 74064 99999, where our care officers will understand your requirements and help you find the right specialist.

Through Direct Walk-in:

You can also directly walk into the hospital and speak to the patient help desk to know which oncologist is available for consultation and accordingly schedule your appointment.

Things to Keep in Mind While Scheduling Your Appointment

If you wish to consult a specific oncologist or an oncologist from a particular discipline, please inform our care officer, and they will help you accordingly.

If you are willing to meet the specialist virtually, please inform the care officer. Our mobile app allows you to select the virtual consultation option when you are booking your appointment.

The hospital may send you a reminder the previous day or on the day of the appointment.

If you are not able to make it to the appointment for any reason, please inform the hospital so that they can help you book one at a different time.

How To Prepare

The more prepared you are before the visit, the more fruitful your discussion will be with our specialists. Here’s how to prepare for your first oncologist visit:

Write down your symptoms, when you started experiencing them, and any changes you've seen.

Have a list of all the medications you take, which includes your prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplements.

Have a list of past illnesses, chronic conditions (such as diabetes or high blood pressure), allergies, and surgeries you've had.

If you know of a family history of cancer or other hereditary diseases, make a note of those, too.

If you can, ask someone to go with you for support and to help you recall things better.

Additionally, you can make a list of questions to ask, like the ones listed under the section, “Key Questions to Ask an Oncologist During a First Visit.”

Documents to Carry for Your Discussion

During your consultation, you may be asked for your old pathology reports or scanning reports. Having these documents in one place can help you have a swift consultation experience. The following is the oncologist appointment checklist for documents you may have to carry:

A letter from your primary care doctor (if you have one)

All historical medical records that are important to the current issue

X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, MRIs, and PET-CT scans on CDs or USBs

Pathology reports and slides or paraffin blocks, if you have them

The results of blood tests, including a complete blood count, liver and kidney function tests, and tumor markers, may also be included.

Proof of ID and insurance (for registration purposes and treatment-related discussions)

Any old biopsy reports or notes from the surgery

What Happens During Your First Oncology Visit

Generally speaking, a first oncology appointment has a set framework, which involves clinical evaluation, reviewing material, and discussion on next steps. However, it can change to fit your requirements.

Here's what happens at your first oncology appointment:

Registration & Waiting For Your Turn

On the day of your appointment, get to the hospital about 10-15 minutes early. Once you are in, you should check in at the outpatient desk.

At our hospital, we have patient coordinators who can help you prepare medical records for the cancer doctor and fill out necessary medical forms.

Usually, your consultation occurs at the said time; however, sometimes, you may have to wait for your appointment, especially when there is a high patient volume or if the doctor has some emergency cases to look into.

Discussion on Symptoms and Initial Observations

As you enter, our specialist will greet you. Once you are comfortably seated, our specialist will begin the discussion. They may first ask about your symptoms and the length of time you have been experiencing them. They may also ask what prompted you to see an oncologist. After this, the discussion will slowly proceed to your and your family’s medical history.

Medical History Assessment

Medical history assessment plays an important role in identifying your individual medical risk, devising treatment plans, and predicting disease prognosis. Your medical history assessment may include a discussion of the following factors:

Previous diseases, drugs, and allergies

Family history of cancer

Your day-to-day activities in domestic and professional settings

Additionally, factors like social support, employment, and housing conditions may also be discussed, as these factors impact the next steps, i.e., treatment planning and treatment delivery.

Discussion on Existing Medical Reports/Diagnosis

After evaluating your medical history, the doctor may go over imaging and pathology reports with you. They will explain the diagnosis, the type of tumor, and the stage as much as possible if the pathology (biopsy) is clear. The oncologist may suggest more testing if the reports are incomplete or if additional reports are required for a conclusive diagnosis.

Physical Examination

The doctor may also conduct a physical examination, taking into account your symptoms and the suspected affected organ system. A physical exam is considered one of the first steps of a cancer diagnosis.

Recommendations for Tests & Scans, if Any

At times, the doctor may recommend specific diagnostic tests if diagnostic information is incomplete or if there have been no diagnostic tests done. These tests are necessary for them to arrive at a conclusive diagnosis: BI-RADS scoring for breast cancer Imaging tests (different types of PET scans, MRI scans, etc.) Genomic testing Circulating tumor cells (CTC) test Liquid biopsy tests and other biopsy procedures Blood tests for tumor markers and organ function assessments If systemic therapy is anticipated, baseline examinations of the heart, lungs, or bone marrow may also be recommended, as some cancer drugs can negatively impact the outcomes in patients with co-morbidities associated with these organs.

Evaluation of New Test Reports

New reports may take anywhere between a few minutes and four weeks to arrive, depending on the type of test recommended and its complexity. To show these reports to the doctor, the patients may have to schedule another in-person or virtual appointment.

BI-RADS Scoring for Breast Cancer:

Scores 1-3 indicate benign findings; score 4 indicates a 50-60% chance of cancer; and score 5 indicates a 90% chance of cancer. For BI-RADS scores above 4, a biopsy will be recommended.

Imaging Tests:

At HCG, we use targeted or highly specific radiotracers for PET scans; this improves the quality of diagnostics and reduces the risk of false positives. Our doctors may recommend FAPI scan, DOPA or methionine PET, PSMA PET, F18 bone scan, etc., for detailed evaluation, along with disease staging and treatment planning.

Genomic Testing:

At HCG, genomic testing is recommended in younger individuals, as cancers detected at a young age are often aggressive, and understanding which gene is driving cancer growth can help in planning effective treatment.

Circulating Tumor Cells Test:

The circulating tumor cells test looks for cancer cells in blood samples, which helps track disease progression and treatment response. It is also referred to as a liquid biopsy.

Other Blood Tests:

Blood tests for specific tumor markers and organ function evaluation may also be recommended.

Biopsies:

A biopsy is considered a conclusive diagnosis for cancer. Doctors may recommend a biopsy for suspicious masses, lumps, or lesions anywhere in the body.

Evaluation of Treatment Options

The oncologist will discuss possible treatments based on your diagnosis, health, and preferences. The following are the different cancer treatment options recommended by specialists:

1.Watchful waiting or active surveillance (for certain slow-growing tumors, e.g., prostate cancer)

2.Surgery, radiation therapy, systemic therapy (chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy)

3.Combination therapies and sequencing (neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy)

4.Clinical trials

5.Supportive care to improve the quality of life

If the case is complicated, it may be sent to our multidisciplinary tumor board, where a large group of specialists will review it before recommending the most suitable treatment plan.

Addressing Patients’ Questions & Concerns

Our oncologists are dedicated to helping you understand your condition, taking the time to answer all your questions and ensuring that you are satisfied with the responses you receive. Patients often worry about side effects, success rates, treatment duration, the impact on day-to-day life, sexual function and fertility, and when they can return to their routine activities. Lastly, if you need help with your finances, you can communicate those concerns to the specialist, who can help you get in touch with our financial counselors at HCG.

Online Cancer Consultation: Meet HCG’s Specialists from Anywhere

HCG offers online or virtual consultation services with our specialists if you cannot travel to our hospital. You may share your diagnostic reports beforehand with our care officers so that our specialists can go through them in detail and discuss the next steps during the call. Initial discussions can happen virtually. However, if additional tests are required, you may have to visit the hospital.

Please keep the following in mind when booking an oncology appointment online:

• Ensure that your internet connection is stable during the call.
• For better interaction, we recommend that you have all the questions jotted down before the session starts so that there will be no delay or lag in the conversation.
• Also, please be sure to ask if there are any additional tests required, as this helps them arrive at a better diagnosis and guide you in the right direction.

What Questions Should I Ask at the First Cancer Appointment?

Create a list of questions that are tailored to your specific situation and ask the doctor to address them in a way you understand. The following are key questions to ask the oncologist during the first visit:

• Can you explain my diagnosis in simple terms?
• Has my cancer been staged? If yes, what stage is it?
• What treatment options are available for me, and how will my condition be managed?
• What tests are required before finalizing the treatment plan?
• Will my case be discussed in a tumor board meeting?
• What side effects or complications should I expect from the treatment, and how will they be managed?
• When should my treatment begin?
• How will this treatment affect my work, family, and daily life?
• Is it possible to achieve complete (100%) remission?
• Will I need lifelong treatment for my cancer?
• How will different treatment options impact my quality of life?
• Should I undergo genetic testing or consult a specialist?
• Can I seek a second opinion or request a virtual tumor board discussion?
• What will recovery look like after treatment, and should I consider support services?
• How can I get information about treatment costs and insurance approvals?

Understanding Your Diagnosis & Next Steps

After your first appointment, you should clearly understand the following factors:

• Whether there is a confirmed cancer diagnosis or if additional tests are required.
• A preliminary treatment plan or the steps needed to finalize the treatment approach.
• The expected time frame for starting treatment.
• Names and contact details of the nurse coordinator and the treating medical team.

If your case needs a tumor board review, it may be presented to a team of experts from other fields for a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan, which improves treatment precision and optimizes health outcomes for you.

Seeking a Second Opinion on Your Diagnosis

At HCG, we encourage patients to take a second opinion on their cancer diagnosis. If you are not satisfied with your first consultation or want more information before making a decision, you can consider taking a second opinion.

Keep the following points in mind when seeking a second opinion after your initial oncology appointment:

• You may seek a second opinion in person at another cancer hospital that offers tumor board services.
• You can opt for a tumor board review to gain deeper insights into your case.
• You may consult a different oncologist at HCG; our care officers can help recommend the right specialist for you.
• If you have a sarcoma, you can seek additional guidance from a specialist such as a sarcoma expert.

How to Choose a Cancer Hospital for First Visit and Treatment

Choosing the right cancer hospital is crucial for you to receive the best care and support throughout your cancer journey. Multiple factors should be considered. Here’s how to choose an oncologist for the first appointment and treatment:

• Tumor Board Review: Availability of both virtual and in-person tumor board services involving specialists from multiple disciplines.
• Expertise and Experience: The hospital should have proven expertise and extensive experience in managing cases similar to yours.
• Modern Diagnostic Facilities: Access to advanced diagnostic tools such as PET-CT scans and molecular testing.
• Comprehensive Treatment Services: Availability of all major cancer treatment services under one roof.
• Robust Clinical Team: A multidisciplinary team including surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and rehabilitation specialists working together to deliver holistic care.
• Access to Support Services: Availability of psychological counseling, nutrition support, pain management, and rehabilitation services to aid recovery.
• Insurance Support & Financial Guidance: Dedicated patient coordinators to assist with documentation, insurance claims, and financial planning.
• Transparency and Trust: Clear and transparent communication from doctors and staff to support informed decision-making.
• Positive Feedback from Patients: Reviews and feedback from other patients that reflect trust and satisfaction with the hospital’s care.

A quick search with terms like “best cancer hospital in India” or “best cancer hospital near me” can help you find the right cancer hospital for your first visit and treatment. When you begin your cancer journey, informed decision-making becomes important from the very first step.

Managing Emotional Distress Effectively

Emotional preparation for the first cancer consultation is more important than you think.

Finding out you have cancer can cause immense distress and anxiety.

We have a dedicated psycho-oncology department at HCG to manage emotional distress among cancer patients and help them adjust to their new life through healthy coping mechanisms.

Along with psycho-oncology counseling, you may consider the following measures:

• Find someone you trust to talk to and share your thoughts and feelings.
• Join patient support groups to share experiences and learn effective coping strategies.
• Practice breathing techniques, light exercise, and follow a structured daily routine to help manage stress.
• Spend time doing activities you enjoy to help relax and maintain emotional well-being.

Your emotional well-being plays a huge role in cancer management, so do not hesitate to ask for help, even if it is your first cancer doctor consultation.

Exploring Support Services & Resources

Support services are just as important as your treatment. You will be meeting onco-dieticians, physiotherapists, psychological counselors, pain management specialists, fertility specialists, etc., throughout your cancer journey.

You can consult the specialist to learn when to seek support services and how they can help.

Conclusion

Your first oncology appointment can make you feel anxious or stressed, and it is normal. The key to making the most out of your appointment is to have existing information about your health and have your questions readily available. Additionally, try to manage your anxiety and stay calm during your meeting; if you are comfortable, discuss your thoughts with the doctor and seek guidance from them.

The key to winning over cancer lies in seeking the right guidance and receiving timely treatment, and your first appointment is your first step towards it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best cancer hospital for the first appointment?

HCG Cancer Centre is considered one of the best cancer hospitals in India for comprehensive cancer care, including a first consultation. The specialists here are globally trained and have vast experience in managing different types of cancer with personalized treatment approaches.

Through its streamlined approach to cancer management, HCG delivers high-quality care and support to people attending their oncology appointments.

Do doctors tell you right away if you have cancer?

If confirmatory tests, like a biopsy, confirm cancer, you will be informed of the same.

You need to receive this information as early as possible so that you will have sufficient time to make informed decisions.

Why would you be referred to a cancer specialist?

If imaging or lab tests show a mass, if you have persistent symptoms that are alarming (such as weight loss that can't be explained, lumps, or bleeding), or if the first treatment plan needs advice from a specialist, you will be referred to a cancer specialist.

What to expect at the first oncology appointment?

During your first oncology appointment, you can expect a thorough medical history, a focused physical exam, a review of any tests that have already been done, a discussion of probable diagnoses, a recommendation for additional testing, and an individualized treatment plan.

How do I prepare for my first oncology appointment?

Your first oncology consultation is an important one. Important things to bring for the first cancer appointment include your diagnostic reports, a list of medications you take, information on your underlying medical conditions, identification and insurance documents, and a referral letter from your previous doctor, if you have one.

Ensure that you are at least 15 minutes early for your appointment. For your virtual consultation, please ensure that you have a stable internet connection.

Is it normal to be nervous before my first cancer doctor visit?

Feeling nervous when you're seeing an oncologist for the first time is very normal. Knowing that this visit is vital for you to understand your condition and the next steps can help you stay calm.

What information should I provide during my first oncology consult?

During your first oncology consult, discuss your symptoms and their duration, current medications, existing and previous medical conditions, and the available diagnostic information.

What does an oncologist do during the first appointment?

The oncologist will inquire about the diagnosis, staging, available therapies, side effects, timetable, tumor board evaluation, necessity for more testing, support services, and expenses.

For how long will my first oncology appointment last?

Usually, a whole initial visit takes between 20 and 45 minutes, but complicated situations or those that need a lot of record review may take longer. The timing for virtual consultations is the same.

How much time does cancer take from stage 1 to 4?

This varies a lot depending on the type of cancer, the biology of the person, and other things. Some tumors grow slowly over the course of years, while others can grow quickly.

When should I see an oncologist?

If tests or symptoms make you think you could have cancer, if a biopsy comes back abnormal, or if your primary care doctor sends you to an oncologist for a second opinion, you should see one.

How soon does my treatment start after seeing an oncologist?

The timing depends on confirming the diagnosis, staging, the need for more tests, and the planned treatment. Some patients start treatment within days, while others need weeks to finish staging and schedule surgery or systemic therapy.

How does cancer's stage impact treatment?

Staging shows how far the disease has spread and helps figure out if it is possible to treat it successfully, control it and delay its progression, or only manage symptoms and reduce pain and discomfort for patients.

In the early stages, there are multiple ways to treat the disease with excellent outcomes. In the later stages, systemic therapy or a combination of therapies may be needed.

How do doctors estimate life expectancy?

Doctors use tumor biology, stage, patient health, available treatments, and clinical experience to make a prognosis. These are estimations based on statistics, and they are different for each person.

Should I bring someone to the oncology appointment?

Yes. It is also important to bring a family member or a friend with you for emotional support and to help you remember what you talked about at the oncologist appointment.

I have been referred to an oncologist. Does it mean I have cancer?

Not always. A referral suggests that a specialist should look into it because there are concerns or confusing results. The oncologist will help with diagnostic tests to find out whether you have cancer or not.

What is the cost of the first oncology appointment?

The first oncology consultation fees are decided by several factors, including the hospital you choose, the specialist you choose, and the city you live in, among others.

The cost of the first oncology appointment may range anywhere between ₹900 and ₹2500.

Where can I get an affordable cancer consultation in India?

Various hospitals in India offer cancer consultation services at affordable costs, and HCG Cancer Hospital is one such hospital.

At HCG, we charge a reasonable price for consultation, during which our doctors provide clinical guidance to our patients in the best way possible.

What is the cost of a genetic test for cancer at HCG?

The cost of the genetic test for cancer can depend on the type of panel you select. At HCG, genetic tests for cancer can cost up to INR 80,000.