Your First Visit
Your first visit with the thoracic oncology team will consist of the following steps:
1. Information Gathering
During this time, a history and physical will be done by an Advanced Practice Nurse. Information that you bring with you will be compiled and organized within your chart. Please let the nurse know of any concerns that you have that may affect your treatment (transportation needs, financial concerns, family concerns).
2. Patient Teaching
Information as to the clinic visit and times of specific tests and physician appointments will be shared with you by the nurse. Please feel free to let the nurse know of any suggestions you have or special needs that have not been addressed.
3. Special Tests
Tests that are required for evaluation by the physicians will be done prior to the clinic visit (either on the same day or before that day). The nurse will schedule these and contact you.
4. Physician Appointments
If you have been diagnosed with a lung mass or chest xray abnormality but have not undergone a biopsy, you will be scheduled with two physicians (Thoracic Surgeon and Pulmonary Specialist). If you have been diagnosed with lung cancer, you will be scheduled with four physicians (Thoracic Surgeon, Pulmonary Specialist, Medical Oncologist, Radiation Oncologist). If you have been diagnosed with esophageal cancer, you will be scheduled with all five physicians (Thoracic Surgeon, Pulmonary Specialist, Medical Oncologist, Radiation Oncologist, Gastroenterologist). If your referring physician is already one of these specialists, then they may fulfill the role of that team member in planning your best care options
5. Clinical Trial Consideration
If, during your physician appointments, a team member determines that you qualify for participation in a clinical trial, the physician will present that option to you. If you express an interest in pursuing that option, you will also meet with a clinical research associate who will provide you with detailed written information on the trial.
