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Ellis Fischel Cancer Center 115 Business Loop 70 W. Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 882-2100 About Clinical Trials Directions Disease Sites Ellis Fischel Gala Ellis Magazine E-mail a Patient E-mail Us Employment Gift Shop Guest House Index A to Z Make a Gift Margaret Proctor Mulligan     Breast Health Center Phone Numbers Physician Information Support Groups Treatment Programs Submit Comments

GYN-Oncology Patient Appointments & Referrals

New patient appointments and referrals are handled through the Ellis Fischel Cancer Center's Gynecologic Oncology office. Most of the time a doctor or health care provider's referral is necessary. Not all women who need gynecology services or "female exams" need the services of a gynecolgic cancer specialist. To help avoid unnecessary clinic visits, a referral is preferred. On the other hand, a referral to a gynecologic oncologist doesn't always mean a woman has cancer. Pre-cancerous conditions are also managed, to some degree, by Gyn oncologists. Medical conditions that are suspicious for cancer, such as a tumor in the pelvis or abdomen, or patients who it is anticipated may require the surgical expertise of a gyn oncologist (such as a very large patient, or a patient with a complicated history) are often referred as well.

Medical Records

Medical records, pathology slides, and x-ray films are always requested at the time the new patient appointment is made. Having this information available to the doctor before the patient's appointment is very helpful in enabling the doctor to review this material so that he or she can better understand the patient's condition and make appropriate recommendations when they arrive in clinic. If this information is not readily available, it will have to be sent for, which can sometimes delay the doctor's ability to make treatment plans.

Comprehensive Care

The actual new patient appointment averages between 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the availability of records and the type of the problem. A careful medical history will be taken. After which, a thorough physical exam will be done, including a pelvic exam. The final part of the visit usually involves a discussion with the doctor about treatment recommendations and plans. The Gyn Oncology service at Ellis Fischel takes pride in using a team approach to provide thorough, consistent, quality medical care. During the course of her visit, a woman can expect to see one or more nurses, the gynecologic oncologist, a resident doctor in OB-Gyn, and in some cases a medical student. In addition, social workers, dieticians, and other specialist may be involved. As part of the University of Missouri, our goals not only include striving for exceptional patient care, but also aiming for superior medical education and research. We believe this to be a tremendous advantage for our patients. Not only do they benefit from the latest techniques and therapies; they are often our best teachers with regards to the importance of maintaining dignity, respect, and compassion while providing expert patient care.

Financial Arrangements

Medical Assistance Program

At University Hospital we understand that an unexpected situation may call for more resources than are readily available. Medical emergencies frequently create such a situation. The University Hospital Medical Assistance Unit can help you investigate the possibilities for financial resources and expedite the process through the red tape and paper work to apply for the help you need. Call the Medical Assistance Coordinator at 573-884-4710. The coordinator can also be paged during normal business hours through the hospital operator.

Financial Counseling

We want to ensure that your billing is accurate and a smooth process. In an effort to offset any misunderstandings, we need accurate insurance and demographic information. Please stop by Registration Services in the main lobby or if you would prefer to call, the phone number is (573) 884-3300.